Srinagar: Pursuant to the decision taken in the meeting of the Muttahida Majlis-e-Ulama (MMU) Jammu and Kashmir on July 16, to constitute a panel to look into the matter regarding the offensive remarks made by Molvi Imran Raza Ansari, as well as certain preachers from the Ahl-e-Sunnat wal Jamaat, and the derogatory language used on social media about the revered Sahaba (RA) and the noble Ahl al-Bayt (AS), a meeting of the panel was held under the chairmanship of Mufti Azam Jammu & Kashmir, Mufti Nasir-ul-Islam.
The meeting was attended by all panel members — Mufti Nazir Ahmad Qasmi, Aga Syed Mohammad Hadi Al-Moosavi Al-Safavi, Mufti Mohammad Yaqoob Baba Al-Madani, and Aga Mujtaba Al-Moosavi Al-Safavi — along with the participation of several other respected scholars, MMU said in an official statement.
It was noted in the meeting that despite being formally asked to attend the meeting and clear the air, Molvi Imran Raza Ansari chose not to attend and explain the context and nature of his statements, which had not only hurt religious sentiments but also caused public outrage, the statement said.
The panel observed that his absence clearly indicates an unwillingness to offer any clarification, thereby reinforcing the perception that his statements were deliberate, provocative, and in breach of the honour due to those exalted personalities whose respect is an essential part of the faith of all Muslims.
Expressing deep disappointment at his disregard for the opportunity to engage in dialogue and accountability, the panel stated that such conduct is unbecoming of any public figure — particularly one who claims to hold religious responsibilities — and therefore deserves censure. The panel condemned this behaviour.
The panel reiterated the MMU stand that any disrespect towards the Sahaba (RA) or the Ahl al-Bayt (AS) will be unequivocally rejected and condemned by all schools of thought in Jammu & Kashmir. Mutual unity, respect, and the preservation of our shared religious heritage are moral and religious obligations on which there can be no compromise, the statement added.
