New Delhi

Amid the ongoing controversy on the "I Love Muhammad" campaign in parts of India, a thought-provoking statement has emerged from Punjab. The candid remarks of Shahi Imam of Punjab, Maulana Usman Rehmani Ludhianvi, made during his Friday sermon, are being praised not only by the Muslims but also by other communities.

Maulana Usman Rahmani Ludhianvi explained the depth of true love for the Prophet Muhammad, saying that love is not merely expressed through slogans, processions, and demonstrations, but rather must be reflected in a Muslim's character, behaviour, and deeds in his daily life.

Speaking on the controversy, the Shahi Imam said that the reckless street protests and demonstrations being held in the name of the Prophet are far from the true teachings of Islam. He clearly stated, "Love for the Prophet is not achieved through protests and processions; this love must be in the blood and character of Muslims." His statement has gone viral on social media, and people are accepting it as a message of peace and understanding.

Referring to last week’s incidents in parts of Uttar Pradesh, he said that the way people took to the streets without praying and a plan of action and indulged in vandalism, was not like Islam.

Citing examples of what true love of the Prophet Muhammad means, the Shahi Imam said that if you want to be considered a lover of the Prophet, you must change your behaviour.

“If one lowers one’s gaze on seeing a woman, who is not his daughter or daughter-in-law, and weighs a little extra while selling the goods, forgives a weaker rival when in a position of power, it means he loves the Prophet.”

He appealed the youth to follow a procedure for voicing their concerns and grievances. “You should ask your leaders to prepare the ground, negotiate with the government, prepare a memorandum, and present it to the administration. But sadly, this is not happening, and today, young people are paying the price for this negligence. They are going to jail. There is no one to speak up for them."

In his speech, the Shahi Imam also questioned the silence of the Muslim leadership. He said that tension has been raging in the country for several days on this, but no prominent cleric, Muslim MP, or minister has issued a statement.

He sarcastically said, "When there is a demand for donations, announcements are made in every mosque, but when young people are in trouble or in jail, no one is seen." He said that at a time when society needs direction, those in charge disappear, and the government is then blamed.

Referring to the events in Uttar Pradesh, he asked, "If something went wrong there, did any prominent cleric, MP, or MLA meet Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath? Did anyone formally complain to the government?" He added, "If you need to meet someone or express your views, there's a set process. Simply standing outside an office won't provide a solution. Prepare a memorandum, engage in dialogue, and take a leadership role."

In his address, the Shahi Imam also reminded that Islam embodies restraint, compassion, and justice. Protests also have a method, and if that method is against the Prophet's teachings, it's not love, but merely anger. He said that today, there's a need to act thoughtfully, not to succumb to emotional suffering."

It may be recalled that Shahi Imam Maulana Usman Rahmani Ludhianvi was actively involved in relief work during the recent devastating floods in Punjab. He participated not only organizationally but also personally in relief distribution and served the people. He has previously been known for his leadership in social work.

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This statement is being received positively on social media. One user wrote, "In a tense environment, statements like this provide relief and comfort. This is the true picture of Islam." The Shahi Imam's perspective is crucial in today's times, where only dialogue, restraint, and understanding can guide society in the right direction.