New Delhi, Dec 30 (NationPress) A 'fatwa' from All India Muslim Jamaat (AIMJ)'s national president Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi Barelvi directed at Muslims has faced significant backlash, drawing criticism from many community leaders. Numerous Muslim figures condemned the cleric for advocating that Muslims should refrain from celebrating the New Year.

In a statement issued in Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, he argued that New Year festivities do not align with Islamic customs, as it signifies the start of the Christian calendar.

Maulana Shahabuddin remarked, “It is not a point of pride for young men and women to celebrate New Year or send greetings on this occasion, as it marks the beginning of the English year. Engaging in any activities considered non-religious or un-Islamic is strictly forbidden for Muslims. Young Muslims should steer clear of such celebrations.”

The statement ignited reactions from political leaders across the spectrum, resulting in sharp critiques and diverse perspectives.

Senior BJP leader Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi dismissed the fatwa, stating, “A fraudulent fatwa factory is operating without restraint. These fatwas are issued as casually as vegetables are sold on carts. Such declarations are mere attempts to incite unrest. Nevertheless, society remains alert and aware of these divisive strategies.”

Another BJP figure, Danish Azad Ansari, highlighted the need for progress over controversies, asserting, “Our focus should be on progress and development as a society. This should be our primary concern and mindset.”

Shiv Sena UBT leader Anand Dubey strongly opposed the cleric’s directive, stating, “Do these Maulanas even engage in study or merely claim to be knowledgeable? The entire world celebrates the New Year, yet they oppose it. Preventing any specific religion from celebrating is imprudent. These Maulanas lack insight and should return to madrasas to enhance their knowledge. Leaders like Giriraj Singh and certain BJP members echo the same divisive rhetoric as these Maulanas, which is harmful.”

In contrast, SP leader Abu Azmi shared a different perspective, noting, “I do not celebrate New Year. I only pray for the welfare of India, for everyone's happiness, and for our economy to achieve a trillion dollars. Activities like drinking and partying, which are un-Islamic, do not receive our support. This fatwa targets a specific committee, not the entire nation, and is in accordance with Islamic teachings.”