No compromise on faith: AIMPLB plans nationwide protest against mosque demolitions and UCC

In the wake of growing intolerance towards the Muslim community in BJP-ruled states across northern India, where mosques and madrasas have been targeted and demolished by authorities, and amid concerns over the forced implementation of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), which Muslims fear could curtail their fundamental right to practise their religious beliefs and customs, the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) has announced a nationwide movement.

The Board also appealed to Muslims not to compromise on matters of faith and belief in the name of tolerance or patriotism, urging the community to remain steadfast in safeguarding its religious identity and constitutional rights while responding to the promotion of hatred by right-wing Hindutva groups.

The decision was taken at a meeting of the Board’s Executive Committee held on Monday under the chairmanship of AIMPLB President Maulana Khalid Saifullah Rahmani. The Board said the movement would seek to mobilise public opinion against what it described as the growing social and political marginalisation of Muslims and the erosion of constitutional safeguards.

According to a statement issued after the meeting, an Action Committee has been constituted to coordinate with democratic and peace-loving sections of society to highlight what it termed the increasing atmosphere of hatred and hostility directed at Muslims, attacks on their life, property, honour and dignity, and the consequent damage to communal harmony.

The Board strongly opposed the implementation of the UCC, asserting that any attempt to impose it would be contrary to the religious freedom guaranteed under Article 25 of the Constitution. Expressing concern over legislative initiatives in BJP-ruled states, it noted that after Uttarakhand and Gujarat, similar measures are reportedly being prepared in Assam, Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra.

The AIMPLB also objected to efforts to make Vande Mataram compulsory, arguing that such measures infringe upon religious freedom. It welcomed the interim order of the Calcutta High Court staying a West Bengal government directive mandating the song in schools and madrasas.

The Board further resolved to prepare a comprehensive report documenting the condition of Muslims, rising communal tensions and alleged violations of fundamental rights across the country.