Umar Khalid Documentary Screening Ban Criticized by Syed Qasim Rasool Ilyas

New Delhi, September 13 (Daily Kiran) : Syed Qasim Rasool Ilyas, spokesperson for the All India Muslim Personal Law Board and father of former Jawaharlal Nehru University student Umar Khalid, criticized the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) for opposing the screening of a documentary about his son. Ilyas described the ban on the screening as an act of bullying by the ABVP.

In an interview in New Delhi, Ilyas stated that legal principles dictate that an individual is presumed innocent until proven guilty in court. He argued that halting the documentary’s screening is therefore unjust. Ilyas raised concerns about the allegations against Khalid, noting that questions surrounding the charges and the charge sheet have persisted for years. He pointed out that despite nearly six years passing, a trial has yet to commence, which has delayed the process of obtaining bail.

Ilyas also criticized the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) regarding notices issued to madrasas in West Bengal. He claimed that different forms of action are being taken against madrasas in BJP-ruled states. He alleged that some madrasas face closures or other punitive measures, arguing that targeting a specific community contradicts the spirit of the Constitution. He highlighted the provisions related to religious education and the right to education within madrasas, mentioning that actions against madrasas have also emerged in Assam and Uttarakhand.

In relation to a mosque demolition in Saharanpur, Ilyas asserted that the mosque was nearly 100 years old and had ownership and waqf documents. He alleged that despite a court order to seal the mosque, the administration proceeded with its demolition, which he deemed incorrect and unconstitutional.

Ilyas announced that the All India Muslim Personal Law Board will launch a nationwide campaign from September 17 to the end of November under the theme “Save the Constitution, Save India.” This initiative aims to raise awareness about constitutional rights, religious freedom, and related issues among the public.