Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind rejects UCC, demands halt to mosque demolitions

Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind has called for an end to the demolition of mosques and alleged harassment of madrasas, while rejecting the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), describing it as discriminatory.

The demands were outlined in three resolutions adopted on Friday at the opening session of the organisation's annual Governing Council meeting in Nuh district of Haryana. The gathering, attended by around 2,000 council members, Islamic scholars and other prominent personalities, was inaugurated by Jamiat president Maulana Mahmood Asad Madani.

One resolution raised concerns over scrutiny and alleged intimidation of madrasas in the name of regulatory recognition. It urged the Centre and legal authorities to protect the constitutional rights of minority educational institutions. The organisation also advised madrasa managements to maintain transparent records of land ownership, buildings, students and finances.

Another resolution opposed what it described as increasing attempts to target mosques, Eidgahs and dargahs through legal proceedings and demolition campaigns. It called for strict implementation of the Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, 1991, and urged authorities to prevent fresh disputes over religious sites. The organisation also sought action against officials carrying out demolitions without following due legal procedures.

The third resolution rejected the UCC in its entirety, arguing that the legislation was discriminatory in nature.

The meeting is scheduled to conclude on October 31, with further resolutions and Madani's detailed address expected.