The Chief Imam of the All India Imam Organization, Dr Umer Ahmed Ilyasi, is grappling with a fatwa and threats after attending the Pran Pratishtha ceremony of Ram Lalla at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. Despite the backlash, Ilyasi remains steadfast, highlighting that his decision was aimed at promoting harmony, and he has received positive responses from various quarters.
The Pran Pratishtha ceremony of the Ram Lalla idol took place on January 22 at the Ayodhya Ram Mandir, and it was a historic event attended by dignitaries, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat, Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, business leaders, Bollywood celebrities, and other eminent personalities.
Following his attendance at the ceremony, Chief Imam Umer Ahmed Ilyasi faced a fatwa, a religious decree, for his participation. Subsequently, he received threat calls and messages demanding his resignation. However, amid the challenges, Ilyasi also received appreciation for his gesture of attending the event, emphasizing unity.
“As a chief Imam, I received the invitation from Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra. I contemplated for two days and then decided to go to Ayodhya for harmony, for the country. The fatwa was issued yesterday but I had been receiving threat calls from the evening of January 22,” shared Ilyasi, acknowledging the gravity of the situation.
Despite the criticism and threats, Ilyasi remains resolute in his stance. He expressed that his decision to attend the Pran Pratishtha ceremony was driven by a desire for harmony, both within the country and for humanity. He received a positive response from many individuals who appreciated his effort to send a message of brotherhood through his attendance.
Responding to those who continued to criticize him for attending the ceremony, Ilyasi took a strong stance, suggesting that they “go to Pakistan.” He refused to apologize for his actions and reiterated that he would not resign, emphasizing that his intentions were rooted in promoting love and unity.
“I have recorded a few calls wherein the callers gave me life threats. Those who love me, love the nation – will support me. Those who hate me for attending the ceremony should perhaps go to Pakistan. I have given a message of love; I did not do any crime. I will not apologize or resign; they can do whatever they want,” asserted Ilyasi, confronting the challenges head-on.
The Pran Pratishtha ceremony at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya marked a significant moment in India’s history, symbolizing the culmination of a long-standing dispute and the beginning of a new chapter for the nation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, along with various leaders and dignitaries, participated in the ceremony, underscoring the inclusive spirit that the event aimed to foster.
Despite the differing perspectives and reactions to his attendance, Chief Imam Umer Ahmed Ilyasi remains focused on his commitment to promoting unity and understanding. The incident serves as a reminder of the complexities surrounding religious and cultural sensitivities in India and the ongoing efforts to bridge divides for a harmonious coexistence.
