Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind president Maulana Mahmood Madani sparked a political debate on Saturday after asserting that the term “jihad” has been distorted and misrepresented in public discourse. Speaking at the organisation’s national governing body meeting at the Barkatullah Education Campus in Bhopal, Madani said the word holds sacred significance in Islam and should not be equated with violence.
Madani: ‘Jihad is a fight against oppression’
Addressing attendees, Madani said that “jihad” has been unfairly turned into a term associated with rioting and extremism.
He stated, “Wherever there is oppression, there will be jihad,” explaining that in Islamic teachings, the concept refers to the struggle against injustice and moral corruption.
Madani further argued that labels such as “love jihad,” “land jihad,” and “education jihad” are being used to demean Muslims and their faith. According to him, any terrorist incident is quickly linked to Islam, leading to widespread stigma and false accusations against the community.
‘Jihad has multiple meanings in the Quran’
Elaborating on religious context, Madani said the Quran uses the term in several ways, all aimed at the welfare and dignity of individuals and society.
He added that even when it appears in the context of conflict, it pertains to ending injustice and safeguarding humanity.
Madani clarified that in a democratic and secular country like India—where the concept of an Islamic state doesn’t exist—invoking “jihad” in the political sense holds no relevance.
Comments on judiciary and constitutional principles
Madani also raised concerns about recent judicial decisions, claiming they have created a perception that courts are acting under government pressure.
Citing cases such as Babri Masjid, Triple Talaq, Gyanvapi, and Mathura, he argued that some rulings appear to contradict the Places of Worship Act, affecting public trust.
He stated, “The Supreme Court can be called Supreme only when it remains committed to the Constitution and the rule of law.”
Concerns over social environment
Calling the current atmosphere “sensitive and troubling,” Madani alleged that coordinated efforts were being made to marginalise certain communities through social and economic discrimination, including mob violence, bulldozer actions, and campaigns against madrasas.
He also criticised the portrayal of “halal” as controversial, saying the term covers ethical living, lawful earnings, honesty, and proper use of wealth—not just ritual practices.
BJP’s response: ‘India won’t tolerate such thinking’
Reacting sharply, BJP leader and former minister Narottam Mishra condemned Madani’s remarks.
He questioned the intent behind challenging court decisions and national symbols like Vande Mataram, asserting, “India will no longer tolerate this type of mindset.”