Fact check: Did Mufti Qasim Nomani ask Muslims to retaliate with optimum strength to any attack?
Sheikh-ul-Hadith of Darul Uloom Deoband urged media and general public to read and hear his statement in its entirety, and not quote out of context.
Mufti Abul Qasim Nomani Vice-Chancellor & Sheikh-ul-Hadith of Darul Uloom Deoband has reportedly called upon Muslims to face with “guts and wits” and “retaliate with optimum strength” any attacks on the community.
A video has gone viral on social media, wherein Maulana Nomani reportedly made the remark while addressing the gathering before Friday congregation prayer.
Mufti’s statement is seen by some media as a provocative statement at a time when the country is witnessing an increase in communal clashes and violence across several states.
Mufti Abul Qasim Nomani clarifies
However Mufti Qasim Nomani by issuing a clarification on April 19, stated that media misrepresented parts of his statement, which could lead to misunderstandings. Admitting that he referred to the right of self-defense given by the constitution under extreme conditions, Mufti Nomani said he also urged to show kindness and piety and to show good manners towards their neighbours and fellow non-Muslims brothers, so that the poison of hatred that is being spread in the environment can be diluted.
Sheikh-ul-Hadith of Darul Uloom Deoband urged media and general public to read and hear his statement in its entirety, and not quote out of context.
Having said that Maulana Nomani added, “It is clear that we always strive to promote peace and brotherhood in the country and are opposed to any action that creates an atmosphere of mutual hatred, because it is harmful to the country. We demand that those currently trying to create an atmosphere of hatred in the country must be stopped and action be taken against them.”
Mufti Abul Qasim Nomani advises Muslims
Mufti Abul Qasim Nomani advised Muslims to rectify their actions and manners, repent from sins, start life afresh, present true picture of Islam to the non-Muslim brethren and neighbours to counter the anti-Muslim hate campaign. He said, stop fearing death. Death will come on its time. And will come only once. Shari’ah and the constitution have given right to defend. God forbid, if a situation arises when our life or property are attacked then we should not surrender as cowards but defend ourselves. He further directed not to take any step against peace as we are all custodians of peace and harmony. But if our life, property or modesty are attacked then don’t just shout Nara-e-takbeer from the root-tops but try to defend by all means, he said.
