In the aftermath of attending the Ram Mandir consecration ceremony in Ayodhya on January 22, Dr. Imam Umer Ahmed Ilyasi, the chief cleric of All India Imam Organisation, has sought security from the Indian government after receiving a ‘fatwa’ and alleged threats.
Ilyasi, who was among the invited guests for the temple’s inauguration, disclosed that he received the ‘fatwa’ and threatening videos on January 28. In response, he has written to Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Union Home Secretary Ajay Kumar Bhalla, expressing concern and requesting intervention for his safety.
While clarifying that the ‘fatwa’ does not apply in India, as the country is not governed by Shariah law, Ilyasi emphasized his fear of the threats. The ‘fatwa’ criticizes him for prioritizing “consecration over religion” and not adhering to Islamic rules. Ilyasi also mentioned facing a boycott campaign by other clerics.
“I attended the ceremony to spread the message of love and brotherhood,” said Ilyasi, expressing his dismay over being asked to apologize and step down from his role as the chief of All India Imam Organisation. As a leader responsible for 5.5 lakh mosques across the country, he highlighted the potential confusion the ‘fatwa’ might create among people.
On January 22, the consecration ceremony in Ayodhya was led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the presence of other prominent figures. The Ram Mandir construction, initiated over 15 years ago, has been closely monitored by the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust.
