Feature: A fatwa has been issued against Umer Ahmed Ilyasi, the Chief Imam of All India Imam Organisation, following his participation in the Pran Pratishtha ceremony of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. The fatwa, issued on Sunday, comes amid growing tensions and threat calls directed at the Imam since January 19, just hours after the inauguration of the Ram Mandir.
In a statement to ANI, Imam Umer Ahmed Ilyasi revealed that he has been receiving threatening calls since January 19, emphasizing that the fatwa was officially issued on Sunday. Undeterred by the threats, he asserted that those who support him also support the nation, and those who criticize his attendance at the ceremony should consider relocating to Pakistan.
Having received an invitation from the Ayodhya temple trust, the Chief Imam took two days to contemplate before deciding to attend the historic event. He described this decision as the most significant of his life, emphasizing that he attended the ceremony for the sake of harmony and the country.
Defending his stance, the Imam clarified that he believes attending the Ram Mandir ceremony was not a crime. Despite the backlash, he remains unapologetic and unwilling to resign from his position.
“I have given a message of love,” the cleric stated, underlining his commitment to fostering unity and understanding. The controversy surrounding the fatwa adds a layer of complexity to the ongoing discourse surrounding religious harmony and tolerance in India.
