NEW DELHI, Nov.4, 2024: At the “Save Constitution Convention” held here at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium, Maulana Arshad Madani, President of Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind, addressed a massive gathering of Muslims, emphasizing the crucial role of the Ulama, madrasas, and his organization in India’s struggle for independence. He reaffirmed that the country’s freedom is the result of immense sacrifices made by Muslims and Ulama throughout history.
Maulana Arshad Madani stated that the formation of the Indian National Congress was not initially aimed at liberating the nation but rather at easing tensions between Britain and Indians following uprisings and Jihad led by Ulama in 1832 and 1857. He credited Jamiat Ulama with compelling the Congress to support the freedom struggle.
Reflecting on historical hardships, he recounted the brutal killing of 35,000 Muslims in Delhi during the 1857 uprising, asserting that the elders of the community did not bow down to oppression. He asserted, “Since we did not yield to British oppression, no power can make us bow now, we submit only to Allah.”
Arhsad Madani condemned the collusion of communal forces attempting to incite violence and create divisions among the populace. He stressed the importance of unity among Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, and Christians to preserve the integrity of the nation, noting that the greatest threat today is to the secular constitution, which guarantees equal rights to all citizens, including minorities.
He expressed concern over ongoing efforts to undermine this constitution, citing conspiracies against madrasas and the proposal of a Uniform Civil Code as significant threats to religious freedom. He highlighted the proposed amendments to the Waqf Act, asserting that they aim to usurp Waqf properties, which he deemed a clear violation of constitutional principles.
The senior Muslim scholar denounced biased communal politics that threaten constitutional existence, stating, “If the supremacy of the constitution is compromised, democracy cannot survive.” He referenced various societal issues, including citizenship debates, bulldozer actions, and recent riots, commending the Supreme Court for its decisions in favour of the marginalized groups.
He addressed accusations against Jamiat of harbouring terrorists, firmly stating that the organization does not shelter any terrorists but rather provides legal aid to those falsely accused in terror cases.
Warning against divisive politics, he reminded the audience that communalism only weakens the nation and emphasized the need for unity grounded in compassion and brotherhood.
Arshad Madani also condemned the ongoing violence in Palestine, highlighting Israel’s aggression supported by the US and calling for a global response to this humanitarian crisis.
The President of the Muslim Personal Law Board, Maulana Khalid Saifullah Rahmani, focused his speech on the Waqf Amendment Bill, detailing the amendments and stating that this is a very dangerous amendment. He warned that if this bill is passed, the existence of our mosques, graves, shrines, and cemeteries will be at risk.
The convention opened with a recitation from the Holy Quran by Qari Shamsuddin, with Mufti Syed Masoom Taqib serving as the announcer. The Vice President of Jamiat, Maulana Asjad Madani, outlined the convention’s goals, asserting that as long as the constitution exists, citizens’ rights will be protected.
Speakers, including Maulana Syed Ashhad Rashidi and Advocate Fuzail Ayyubi, reinforced the urgency of addressing issues like the Waqf Amendment Bill, with several key resolutions adopted during the event. These included condemnations of Israeli aggression in Palestine, concerns regarding the identity of madrasas, and affirmations of the need to protect the Constitution of India.
Notable attendees included Jamaat-e-Islami Hind’s vice president Prof. Salim Engineer and members of Jamiat’s Working Committee and various local leaders, all united in their commitment to uphold the values enshrined in the Constitution.