For FB post in support of Waqf Act...Muslim BJP leader's house torched
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, April 07 2025: The Deputy Commissioner of Thoubal district has imposed a prohibitory order in Lilong, a Muslim majority constituency, for an indefinite period after a mob torched the residence of Askar Ali Makakmayum, the BJP Minority Morcha's State president.

The house of the BJP leader was targeted allegedly over a Facebook post supporting the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025 last night.

The Act, recently passed by the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, has sparked controversy and opposition from various groups across the country.

Asker Ali has removed his Facebook post and uploaded a video apologizing for his actions.

For FB post in support of Waqf Act...Muslim BJP leader's house torched

"I sincerely apologise to the Muslims and Meitei Pangal community.

I will not repeat such an act in the future.

I oppose the Waqf Bill passed in Parliament, and it should be repealed immediately," he said in the video.

According to a well placed source, the mob of 7000 - 8000 people stormed the residence of Askar Ali at Lilong Shambrukhong Manai, demanding an apology and removal of the Facebook post.

When he wasn't found, they dismantled his household items at around 9.30 pm, burned down his house, and also damaged his elder sister's home.

It is reported that Fire service vehicles were prevented from reaching the scene by the mob, who blocked their path at Lilong Kaleikhong Lou Tara and Turel Wangma.

Later, an additional team of Thoubal police and CRPF arrived at the spot and fired tear gas shells and mock bombs to disperse the mob.

The situation was brought under control past midnight and four persons have been arrested by the security forces.

BJP, Manipur Pradesh has condemned the incident.

As prohibitory orders under Section 163 of BNSS has been imposed in Lilong, assembly of five or more persons, carrying of firearms, swords, sticks, stones, or other lethal weapons, sharp-edged articles, and objects of any description which can be used as offensive weapons have been banned in the Constituency.