Respect for Leaders Urged as Imam Slams Anti‑Modi Rhetoric

Imam Umar Ahmad Ilyasi, speaking from New Delhi, condemned the vulgar language directed at Prime Minister Narendra Modi during recent street protests. He framed Modi as a parental figure for the nation, stating that insults aimed at him reflect a broader disgrace to India. Ilyasi called for peaceful protest, stressing that the right to demonstrate must be exercised with decorum and without harming public property. He cited incidents of arson on government buses and road blockades as counterproductive actions that hurt citizens. The imam highlighted that Modi holds the distinction of receiving the highest civilian honours from 37 foreign governments—a first for any Indian prime minister—and urged citizens to align with cultural values that emphasize reverence for elders and leaders.