Speakers at a discussion on ‘Pluralism – neo-Salafism – Terrorism’ organised by the Kerala Nadvathul Mujahideen (KNM) Markazuda'wa here on Wednesday exhorted the faithful to be vigilant against extremism and ultra-spiritualism being propagated in the name of Islam.
In his inaugural address, the Mujahid faction leader, Hussain Madavoor, who is also the general secretary of the All India Islahi Movement, said that spiritualism transcending beyond a point was fanatical. The Constitution of India had enshrined rights for Muslims just like other religious communities, including Hindus and Christians, to follow their customs and beliefs. There was no need for Muslims to leave the country to lead an Islamic life, Mr. Madavoor said.
A concerted effort irrespective of any affiliations was required to take on those attempting to destroy the communal harmony in the State. Now, a tendency had taken shape towards Sufism and radicalism. The Mujahid movement had once campaigned for a pluralistic society when Muslim fundamentalism reared its head 15 years ago. Such endeavours should be continued, he said.
‘Revamp syllabus’
Introducing the topic, Mujeeb Rehman Kinaloor, former State president of Ithihadu Shubbanil Mujahideen, called for revamping the syllabus and code of conduct at the Madrassas in tune with the modern times. The messages received from disappeared youths that went in search of Darul-Islam revealed that they had been associated with an ultra- Salafist organisation. This neo- Salafism ideology, now mainly transmitted through the Internet, could be traced to Gulf Salafism. It regarded Muslims mingling with other communities un–Islamic and it supported boycotting festivities like Onam.
The neo- Salafists endorsed the Sunnah and the Koran as equivalent. No further research should be carried on Prophet Mohammed and early generation of Muslims. Beard-less and Niqab-less were considered un – Islamic. They also did not believe in democracy and as such many had even failed to exercise their franchise in the recent elections, Mr. Kinaloor said.
Columnist O. Abdulla said that the new generation of professionals, now immersed in their worldly life, should be imparted religious education. No country gave the religious freedom like India. KNM president C.P. Ummer Sullami, general secretary M. Salahuddin Madani and journalist A. Sajeevan also spoke at the programme.
