Muslim board to launch 'save religion and constitution' movement

All India Muslim Personal Law Board, the apex body of Indian Muslims, announced on Saturday that it will launch a nation-wide campaign against attempts by the government to impose a particular religious culture.

The board has also involved other minority groups and organisations from depressed classes in its campaign 'deen aur dastur bachao' (save religion and constitution).

Voicing concern over the 'alarming' situation prevailing in the country, AIMPB general secretary Moulana Sajjad Naomani told a news conference here that as part of the campaign public meetings, seminars and symposiums would be organised to bring public awareness.

He said that there is a threat to the Muslim faith and culture as attempts were being made to impose a particular culture by way of yoga, surya namaskar and Vande Mataram.

"Muslims can never compromise on their faith come what may. The community is disturbed with the developments," he said while pointing out that India is a secular democratic country and the constitution guarantees the religious freedom.

Naomani said some forces were best upon to distract the community from its fundamental faith and way of life. He cites the examples of large scale changes in the education system and changes in the syllabus of schools and colleges.

The board leaders claimed that efforts are being made to amend the laws, which many affect the Muslim personal laws.

"The communal forces are upbeat with the support of people at the helm of affairs. The growing communalism is not only a danger to the Muslim community but also to other religious, cultural and social groups. This communalism will hamper the growth and well being of the people," the board said.

AIMPB secretary Moulana Vali Rehmani and other key figures including AIMIM president Asaduddin Owaisi, Abdul Raheem Qureshi and Moulana Khalid Saifullah Rehmani were present.