The All India Muslim Tyohar Committee has intensified its opposition to the appointment of two non-Muslim members to the Madhya Pradesh Waqf Board, appealing directly to the President and the Prime Minister to intervene and revoke the decision.

Addressing a press conference in Bhopal, the committee's Chief Patron, Shamshul Hasan, said letters have been sent to the country's two highest constitutional authorities requesting the dissolution of the current Waqf Board and the formation of a new body that reflects the sentiments of the Muslim community.

Hasan clarified that the organisation has no objection to Waqf Board Chairman Sanwar Patel or the Muslim members serving on the board. He said the committee's opposition is limited to the inclusion of two non-Muslim members, arguing that the Waqf Board is a religious institution associated with Islamic charitable properties and should be managed by representatives from the Muslim community.

Demand for Review

According to Hasan, the letters submitted to the President and the Prime Minister urge the Centre to withdraw the present order and constitute a fresh Waqf Board in accordance with the community's expectations.

He expressed hope that the constitutional authorities would appreciate the sensitivity of the issue and take a decision that respects the religious sentiments of Muslims. Hasan also claimed that governments have reviewed decisions in the past in response to public sentiment and appealed for a similar reconsideration in this case.

Remarks on Religious Leaders

Without naming anyone directly, Hasan also criticised certain Muslim scholars and religious leaders who welcomed the newly constituted Waqf Board and its chairman.

He said religious leaders, despite being well-versed in the Quran and Hadith, should stand with the community on issues affecting religious institutions rather than supporting what he described as a controversial decision.

The remarks are seen as an indirect reference to Bhopal City Qazi Mushtaq Ali Nadvi, who had recently welcomed the reappointed Waqf Board Chairman Sanwar Patel.

Appeal to Religious Leadership

Hasan said the responsibility of religious leadership extends beyond issuing public statements and includes safeguarding the interests of the community.

He urged contemporary Islamic scholars to draw inspiration from historical religious leaders who, according to him, worked for the welfare and rights of the community. Those who have remained silent or supported the appointments should reconsider their position, he added.

Committee Vows Democratic Protest

The committee claimed that resentment over the inclusion of two non-Muslim members exists among sections of the Muslim community across the country.

Hasan maintained that the protest is not directed against any political party but against a decision that many community members perceive as interference in the administration of a religious institution.

He said the organisation would continue its campaign through democratic and constitutional means if the government does not review the appointments.

Background of the Controversy

The controversy began after the Madhya Pradesh government reconstituted the state Waqf Board and appointed two non-Muslim members—Manoj Malpani of Indore and Animesh Bhargava of Raghogarh—along with the reappointment of Sanwar Patel as chairman.

The appointments have triggered protests from some Muslim organisations, including demonstrations in Bhopal demanding that the government withdraw the decision. However, other community leaders have publicly welcomed the new board, highlighting differing views within the community over the issue.

After completing 30 days of rigorous fasting during Ramadan, Muslims in Chhattisgarh ushered in Eid-ul-Fitr on Saturday with prayers, embraces, and messages of peace. Large gatherings marked the occasion in Raipur, Bilaspur, Durg, Raigarh, Surguja, and Ambikapur, where devotees offered namaz at mosques and Eidgahs, exchanged greetings, and shared sweets.

Devotees flock to mosques and Eidgahs

Thousands converged at key sites like Eidgah Bhatha in Raipur, Jama Masjid in Bilaspur, and various Eidgahs in Raigarh. In Raipur, worshippers performed the special Eid prayer in the morning, seeking blessings for the nation and state's prosperity. Similar scenes unfolded in Durg's Bhilai, where Sector-6 Jama Masjid saw devoted crowds. In Raigarh, prayers took place at Ghadi Chowk Kadmi Eidgah, Chandmari Eidgah, and Jama Masjid, followed by warm embraces.

Community spirit and charity shine through

Eid-ul-Fitr emphasises brotherhood, joy, and social harmony. Devotees fulfilled the tradition of paying Zakat and Fitra, ensuring the less fortunate could join the festivities. Children, including girls in Raipur, greeted each other with hugs and "Eid Mubarak" wishes, spreading cheer. In Bhilai, young ones exchanged greetings enthusiastically.

Leaders extend warm greetings

Congress leaders joined the celebrations, reflecting communal harmony. Raipur City Congress District President Shri Kumar Menon described Eid as a festival promoting peace and tranquility, noting centuries-old Hindu-Muslim unity in observing such occasions. He extended greetings on behalf of himself and the party.

Advocate Faisal Rizvi highlighted the spiritual essence, saying the 30-day fast trains self-control and empathy for hunger, encouraging good deeds throughout the year. Raipur Jama Masjid's Mutawalli Haji Abdul Fahim called Eid a divine gift after Ramadan's devotion, wishing prosperity to all.

In Bhilai, the Imam at Sector-6 Jama Masjid underlined Eid's message of brotherhood.

Authorities ensure smooth arrangements

Raipur Municipal Corporation Commissioner Vishwadeep directed thorough cleanliness, water supply, and lighting around mosques and Eidgahs in areas like Maudhapara, Chhota Para, Momin Para, and others. Sanitation drives, pesticide spraying, and water tankers were deployed. Police maintained security near prayer sites in Bilaspur and Bhilai.

Festival fosters harmony and hope

Eid-ul-Fitr reinforces values of compassion and unity in Chhattisgarh's diverse society. As families gather for feasts and visits, the day strengthens bonds across communities.

Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations in Chhattisgarh continue to highlight the state's tradition of peaceful coexistence and shared joy.