Bareilly, July 11: The All India Muslim Jamaat (AIMJ) leader Maulana Shahabuddin has voiced concerns regarding the Uttarakhand government’s recent decisions affecting madrasas. He addressed issues such as the Dhaka map controversy concerning Jammu and Kashmir, new guidelines on Vande Mataram and the national anthem, and controversial remarks made by Maulana Sajid Rashidi regarding women.
In a conversation with a news agency, Maulana Shahabuddin criticized the Uttarakhand government for targeting madrasas. He stated that the government aims to deprive the new generation of Muslims of Islamic education. Previously, the government had closed 250 madrasas and dissolved the Madrasa Education Board, eliminating grants for these institutions. He emphasized that the state government seeks to restrict education in Arabic, Persian, and Urdu, hindering the community’s progress.
Maulana Shahabuddin also commented on the status of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (POK), asserting that it is an integral part of India and will soon be included in the country. He noted that the people of Jammu and Kashmir prefer peace and development, highlighting that significant progress has been made since the abrogation of Article 370. Political leaders, including Dr. Farooq Abdullah and his son Omar Abdullah, have consistently advocated for statehood for Jammu and Kashmir, which they believe will accelerate development.
He urged the central government to grant statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, stating it would be in the region’s best interest.
Regarding Maulana Sajid Rashidi’s controversial comments on women, Maulana Shahabuddin remarked that Islam recognizes boys and girls as reaching maturity at the age of 14-15. He condemned the notion that girls should be married off at this age to prevent sexual assault, calling it a shameful perspective.
He further stated that the Ministry of Home Affairs has issued new guidelines making the singing of Vande Mataram and the national anthem mandatory in government offices. He clarified that this directive does not apply to public gatherings, and there should be no pressure on those who choose not to sing.
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