Muzaffarnagar: Several Muslim men in Muzaffarnagar have been issued legal notices and asked to submit a bond of Rs 2 lakh each by the district administration after they wore black armbands during Friday and Eid prayers to protest against the Waqf Amendment Bill.
The symbolic protest, inspired by a call from the All India Muslim Personal Law Board, was held peacefully, according to those involved.
The city magistrate issued notices to five individuals under Section 130 of the Indian Civil Defence Code, claiming their actions could disturb public order. The notices allege that the individuals tried to provoke others after prayers and may incite the public in the future.
One of those served the notice, Shabbir from Sarwat village, said, “Peaceful protest is our democratic right. If MPs can wear black armbands in Parliament to oppose the Bill, why is it wrong when we do it?” He confirmed that no demonstration or provocation occurred after the prayers.
Another person issued the notice is Naeem Tyagi, manager of Madarsa Mahmoodiya. Naeem denied participating in the protest, stating, “I didn’t wear a black armband. I only saw some boys wearing them at the mosque. The administration is targeting people without evidence or investigation.”
Local residents allege that the administration’s move is arbitrary and politically motivated, with notices even sent to individuals who no longer reside in the village.
Shabbir plans to challenge the notice in court. “I trust the judiciary and believe justice will be served,” he said.
