Kolkata, June 22: Dr. SQR Ilyas, a member of the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB), addressed several pressing issues in West Bengal. These include the mandatory implementation of ‘Vande Mataram’ during morning prayers in schools and madrasas, the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), and alleged budget cuts in minority affairs and madrasa education departments. He claimed that the Muslim community has been targeted at various levels over the past decade. In response, the AIMPLB has announced a nationwide awareness campaign.
In an interview, Dr. Ilyas stated that there is ongoing pressure on the Muslim community regarding their safety, religious beliefs, mosques, madrasas, and neighborhoods. He emphasized that attempts are being made to impose issues like Vande Mataram and the UCC on the Muslim society. This has prompted the Muslim Personal Law Board to initiate a campaign aimed at reaching out to those who desire justice, peace, and harmony in the country. The board will urge individuals not to remain silent on these matters and to raise their voices.
He clarified that the UCC is not a mandatory constitutional obligation of the government but rather a recommendation outlined in the directive principles of the Constitution. The concept of UCC is associated with the central government, while discussions about its implementation vary across states, making it not truly uniform. If certain groups and communities are exempted, it cannot be termed a Uniform Civil Code. Article 25 of the Indian Constitution grants citizens the freedom to practice their religion, and the Muslim Personal Law is based on the Quran and Sunnah. Therefore, any interference is viewed by the Muslim community as an infringement on their religious freedom.
Regarding the issue of making Vande Mataram mandatory, Dr. Ilyas stated that the Muslim community does not object to ‘Jana Gana Mana.’ He referenced a Supreme Court ruling from 1986, which allows individuals who feel that a song or prayer conflicts with their religious beliefs to stand respectfully and remain silent. There are elements in Vande Mataram that the Muslim community does not consider compatible with their religious beliefs, making its mandatory implementation inappropriate. This is their primary objection.
Responding to Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi Barelvi’s appeal to declare a Muslim chief ministerial face for the Uttar Pradesh assembly elections, Dr. Ilyas made it clear that this is not an issue for the AIMPLB. The board does not take a political stance and has no official position on the matter.
On the alleged reduction of funds for minority affairs and madrasa education in West Bengal, Dr. Ilyas pointed out that according to the Sachar Committee report, Muslims in Bengal are among the most vulnerable and marginalized communities in the country. He argued that it is unjust for any government to reduce benefits for minorities based on political or ideological reasons. Public funds belong to all taxpayers, not just one community. He questioned why, when special schemes and benefits are provided for Dalits, tribals, and other backward classes, there are cuts in benefits for the Muslim community.
–
Leave a Comment