New Delhi, Dec 3 (NationPress) Jamiat Ulama-e-Hind chief Maulana Mahmood Madani stated that certain individuals who identify as followers of Sanatan Dharma and members of other faiths are attempting to malign and tarnish Islam, while also claiming that these actions serve a Pakistani agenda.

In an exclusive interview with IANS, Madani criticized political factions and leaders who exploit Islam and jihad as a means of disparagement.

He urged for the inclusion of the 'jihad' concept in educational curriculums and discussed the recent accusations related to the Delhi terror blast, the misuse of Islam in terrorist acts, and the claims made by Congress and AIMIM regarding their advocacy for the Muslim community, alongside the controversy surrounding the Sanchar Saathi App.

Selected highlights from the interview:

IANS: You recently issued a firm warning in Bhopal, stating, "Whenever injustice occurs, there will be jihad." This sparked considerable debate. Why is 'jihad' so crucial for the Muslim community?

Mahmood Madani: The populace must grasp the essence of jihad; there are various forms, contexts, and the qualifications for its execution. Furthermore, jihad is a revered religious term in Islam. Those who oppose Islam should openly declare their stance and refrain from distorting the term.

Nonetheless, certain self-proclaimed followers of Sanatan Dharma or other religions are maligning Islam and sowing discord. I must alert the nation that these individuals are acting inappropriately; they aim to propagate terrorism and demonstrate hostility towards our nation; they are traitors working to advance our adversaries' agendas, like Pakistan.

IANS: Why do you believe Islam or the notion of 'jihad' faces scrutiny?

Mahmood Madani: We vehemently oppose the use of the term 'jihad' by Union Ministers, Chief Ministers, and prominent leaders for the purpose of disparagement. We will persist in our opposition to this.

IANS: You assert that 'jihad' is vital for the nation. Why should it be common knowledge?

Mahmood Madani: Jihad must be integrated into school curricula. This concept is present in all religions and everyone should be educated about it.

IANS: The accused in the Delhi terror blast justified suicide bombings as a "martyrdom operation" in Islam. This tragic incident resulted in numerous innocent fatalities. Many, notably doctors from Al Falah University, are being detained in this case. What is your perspective?

Mahmood Madani: Law enforcement is performing its duties. The court will determine their appropriateness. They must be allowed to proceed. Regarding this incident and the Pahalgam event, we emphatically denounce both. We reject such actions. We believe that any attack on humanity, even if it is purportedly in the name of Islam or jihad, constitutes an assault on Islam itself.

All Indians share the sorrow of innocent lives lost to terror. Our pain resonates deeply, especially since the act was executed in the name of Islam. For 30 years, we have fought against this and shall continue; this represents true 'jihad'. Ending terrorism embodies genuine jihad.

IANS: Congress asserts that it advocates for Muslim rights. What is your opinion?

Mahmood Madani: That is a highly political inquiry. It is unreasonable to expect any mainstream political entity to solely advocate for Muslims or exclusively address their issues. I have no such expectations from any party. Presently, Congress struggles to address its own issues—how can it champion others'?

IANS: AIMIM Chief Asaduddin Owaisi claims to represent the Muslim community. He also faces accusations of being a BJP agent. What’s your view?

Mahmood Madani: Politics should not solely be viewed through the lens of Muslims. For the nation and its development, issues like pollution—air, water, or even mental pollution—should be collectively addressed by political parties and civil society. Whether they collaborate or operate independently is their prerogative. I believe our parties are failing to adequately address fundamental issues.

Regarding the allegations against Owaisi, I prefer not to comment in that vein.

IANS: What are your thoughts on the Sanchar Saathi app controversy?

Mahmood Madani: I have heard the Minister of Communications state that anyone can uninstall the application if they wish. I believe that there should be no compulsion. Following the Minister’s remarks, I trust any necessary changes will be made. It concerns individual freedom. If someone is suspected, there are numerous ways to monitor. A person with a mobile phone cannot truly evade scrutiny—that’s my perspective.