Religious Leader Urges Action Against Forced Conversions and Calls for Unity
Bareilly, October 31: Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi has said that forced, pressured or induced religious conversion is illegal under Islam as well as under the laws of the country. He explained that if someone voluntarily embraces another faith out of personal choice and happiness, it raises no objection. But if an organisation or person coerces another into converting, it becomes a crime.
Regarding the conversion case involving the Lucknow Medical College, he urged that those responsible be punished once the investigation is complete. He said that if the government has evidence that someone was converted through force, pressure or lure, the person doing so is guilty under the law. He reiterated that Islam does not allow faith to be imposed through strength or allurement.
Razvi also addressed the proposed Uniform Civil Code in Uttar Pradesh. He said that before such a law is implemented, opinions of all communities and sections should be sought. He emphasised that the principles of Shariat must be kept in mind. He objected to a statement by Union Home Minister Amit Shah on the subject, arguing that where the UCC has been adopted, Muslims were not properly consulted. He also noted that Scheduled Tribes and certain other communities were excluded, raising doubts about the idea of one country, one law.
He said Muslims see the UCC as an intrusion into Shariat. If the code respects Shariat principles, the community may consider accepting it. Otherwise, it would not be acceptable to them.
The cleric also highlighted Hindu-Muslim harmony and national integrity. He cited Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's remark 'Batoge To Katoge' and said it implies that all religions and sects in India should live together in unity. He said that if citizens stand shoulder to shoulder, no foreign power can divide the nation.
On the Haridwar incident and the name 'Mohammad Deepak', Razvi said that some mischief-makers recently harassed and beat an elderly Muslim man. His neighbour Deepak defended him and asked the attackers to confront him rather than the old man. When asked his name, Deepak reportedly replied 'Mohammad Deepak'. Razvi appreciated the courage shown in helping a victim, but said that according to Shariat a non-Muslim should not use the word Mohammad, as it is the name of the Prophet of Islam and holds great reverence for Muslims.