Following a two-day convention of the All India Muslim Personal Law Board, the body on Sunday decided to constitute a committee called ‘Defend Constitutional Rights Committee’ to step up propaganda countering the anti-minority decisions of various state governments and the Center. The spokesperson of the body said that ever since the formation of the new government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Muslims are ‘increasingly feeling insecure.’
“Several recent decisions by the Center and various state governments and hate speeches by Vishwa Hindu Parishad and Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh leaders have created a difficult and unnerving atmosphere for Muslims. In the face of such difficult times, we have decided to set up a committee and create awareness among members of the community to stand up for their constitutional rights, which is a secure secular environment,” Mohammed Abdul Rahim Qureshi, secretary of the All India Muslim Personal Law Board, said on Sunday.
Over 250 members of the body gathered in the state capital for a two-day convention on March 21 and 22 for their annual general body meeting, which also included issues such as the Rajasthan government’s decision to introduce compulsory Surya Namaskar in schools, introduction of yoga in the curriculum in Madhya Pradesh and Haryana schools, Ghar Wapasi and repealment of Mussalman Wakf Validating Acts 1913 and 1930.
“Introducing Surya Namaskar compulsory in schools go against our religion. According to Islam, we cannot worship anything except our life giver. The sun is not worshipped by us and how can anyone force us to do it? Ever since Modi came to power, Hindutva forces have become powerful. Ghar wapasi is being held and the right wing forces are spewing venom against Muslims and Christians,” Qureshi added.
The AIMPLB, however, is not keen on sending a delegation to meet the Prime Minister. “The issue of Ghar Wapasi was discussed in the Parliament but Modi did not even participate in it. He has done nothing so far to reassure the minority community and has instead maintained a stony silence on the issue,” Qureshi alleged.
Zafar Yab Gilani, a member of the executive committee of the Board, said, “No religion should be taught in schools. We will write to the MP and Haryana government regarding compulsory yoga classes.”
The Board in its discussions condemned the recent repealment of the Mussalman Wakf Validating Acts 1913 and 1930. Issues such as the ban on beef consumption too was taken up. “Instead of looking at the beef ban through a religious prism, it should be looked at independently. Why is there no ban on bull slaughter. It is also consumed by the lower Hindu castes,” Qureshi said. “Cow hide is exported to England and its bones are also put to use. It has a economic connotation too.”
Source: IndianExpress
