Clerics call for unity among minorities, issues fatwa against terrorism

The Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind (JUH), during its 29th general convention in Hyderabad, adopted several paramount resolutions, one being a fatwa against terrorism.

One of the leading Islamic organisations in the country, JUH, apart from covering a series of issues from terrorism to political reservation, also called for Dalit Muslim tribal Christian unity, in the backdrop of attacks on churches. The gathering saw the representation of religious leaders from all faiths.

Expressing solidarity with the persecuted Christians in Orissa, the conclave opposed "Hindu extremism" and said communal violence has targeted Dalits, Muslims, Christians and tribals. It further urged minorities to "bring about a solid unity amongst themselves", asking Muslims to shed "false notions of social superiority".

In its resolution on terrorism, JUH says Hindu outfits had been found to be involved in blasts in Modasa and Malegaon - those influenced by outfits like RSS. "In view of this, to raise a finger against any particular community or religion is highly unjust."

Meanwhile to curb Islamic terrorism, sources said, plans are being drawn up to impart education about Islam to young Muslims with the help of clerics from neutral Muslim organisations.

It was learnt that those involved in the recent Delhi blasts were members not of madarasas but educated from public schools.

Commenting on the Indian Mujahideen men arrested in connection with the blasts, an official said, "They haven't been subjected to communal discrimination. However, on questioning them we realised they have no knowledge of the Quran."

The official quoted Atif, a member of the gang saying, "Jehad means a war against non-muslims and anyone who fights for Jehad becomes a hero."

Reportedly, the terrorists were given ''study material'' to read from, which included a book called 'Jungle Pukarte Hain'. ''It's a collection of short stories about Afghani militants who fought against the army. There are stories to make them believe Allah helps those who fight against non-muslims,'' the official told Times of India, a national daily.

Agreeing with the proposal for religious education to youths, Maulana Mahmood Madani from JUH said, "Terrorism is neither Hindu nor Muslim, it is against humanity. Although it is not the police's job to start imparting education, we agree that to make a good citizen, moral and religious education is of prime importance. People don't turn to terror because they study in a madarasa or because they are Hindu or Muslim. They take to arms because of the money-oriented education given to them without imparting moral values."

''Imbibing good Indian values, in addition to basic education, in youngsters from an early age will benefit. This is a long-term strategy which has to be taken up immediately. Unless we take a holistic approach to terrorism, we will suffer for years to come. If we start this now, the results will show 20 years from now,'' he added.

Sri Sri Ravishankar of the Art of Living Foundation, Swami Agnivesh, Pandit N.K. Sharma and Joseph D Souza, president, All India Christian Council shared the dais with other eminent ulemas and muftis.