By Saifur Rahman
Dear members, with heavy hearts and profound respect for the legacy of Hazrat Maulana Rabe Hasni Nadvi, I gather my courage here today to embark on a new chapter for the All India Muslim Personal Law Board. As we navigate through this transition period, let us remember that our responsibilities extend far beyond the confines of political and social realms. Our primary purpose lies in safeguarding the principles of Shariat Islamia and upholding Muslim Personal Law, in harmony with the needs and aspirations of the Muslims of India.
The challenges faced by the community have grown more complex, driven by political maneuvering and an unsettling rise in religious aversion among our youth. It is in this context that we must carefully deliberate on the appointment of strong and dedicated officials, especially for the position of President. While Maulana Arshad Madani’s name has surfaced, we must acknowledge his existing responsibilities as Ameerul Hind and his poor health concerns, making him an unlikely choice. Instead, allow me to propose a candidate who possesses outstanding leadership qualities and unencumbered dedication — Maulana Sajjad Naumani. He epitomizes the essence of our organization and stands as a beacon of inspiration to guide us forward. Apart form this he is the most popular religious leader among the Muslim youths, taking this advantage he may guide the new generation at this crucial juncture. Apart from this he is one of the few religious leaders who took a stand on issues forefronted by Muslims since the BJP came to power.
Turning our attention to the role of General Secretary, Maulana Khalid Saifullah Rahmani has demonstrated commendable performance. Nevertheless, the sheer magnitude of the Board’s work necessitates the appointment of one or two young leaders to serve as his assistants.
Among the many qualified individuals, I humbly propose the name of Ameer Jamaat-e-Islami Engineer Saadatullah Hussaini and Ameer Shariat Ahmad Wali Faisal Rahmani. Their religious knowledge, unwavering dedication, extensive experience, and fearlessness equip them perfectly to support the arduous tasks ahead.
Our organization also faces significant legal challenges, which are anticipated to intensify in the coming years. We must fortify our legal arsenal by establishing a robust advisory council consisting of legal experts and seasoned lawyers. Moreover, it is imperative that we form a secondary legal team at both national and provincial levels, comprised of young and sincere individuals capable of handling legal matters under the guidance of our Board’s leadership.
In the pursuit of our goals, it is crucial to include respected and popular individuals as members of the Board. Maulana Saeed-ur-Rehman Azmi Mohtamim Darul Uloom Nidwat Ulama, Maulana Toqeer Raza Khan, Maulana Ahmad Ludhianwi Shahi Imam of Punjab, Maulana Huzaifa Wastanwi, Mufti Hanif Ahrar Supaulvi Qasmi, and Ziauddin Siddiqui, Amir Wahdat-e-Islami, are among the esteemed figures who can fulfill the roles of vice presidents and secretaries, effectively contributing to the preservation of Islamic Shariat from both legal and ideological standpoints.
Furthermore, we must recognize the importance of the social reform addressing the growing inclination of Muslim youth towards religious aversion and apostasy. This department should design family counseling programs and reform initiatives at the grassroots level, focusing on mosques. By training Imams to adapt current practices to the prevailing atmosphere, we can revitalize Friday sermons and continuously provide relevant contents.
In this age of ubiquitous social media, we cannot overlook its power and reach. Hence, I propose the establishment of a robust IT cell, comprising skilled professionals who can spearhead effective reform initiatives, transcending mere poster campaigns.
In conclusion, I propose the formation of a specialized team of women to address the legal and ideological challenges faced by women in India, particularly in areas such as Triple Talaq . Furthermore, it is essential to develop a practical plan of action to promote women’s empowerment at the micro-level.
While some may argue that it is inappropriate to discuss new leadership so soon after the passing of late Rabe Hasni Nadvi, I believe that delaying such discussions contradicts the principles of Sharia. After the Prophet Muhammad’s (peace be upon him) death, his companions promptly appointed new leaders. Hence, the new officials should be elected as soon as possible.
Respected members, these recommendations are crucial and demand your careful consideration. As members of the All India Muslim Personal Law Board, you have a religious obligation and a responsibility to act upon them. Please remember that your actions will be subject to scrutiny on the Day of Resurrection.
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The write is editor of Insaf Times