Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind president Maulana Arshad Madani has urged Muslims across the country to strengthen communal harmony by extending support to their Hindu neighbours and helping dispel misconceptions about Islam. Speaking at the Hindu-Muslim Ittehad Conference in Lucknow, Madani said Muslims should actively reach out to people of other faiths through kindness, cooperation, and mutual respect. He suggested that local madrassas invite non-Muslim visitors at least once a year to help them understand Islamic teachings, the Muslim way of life, and the values promoted by Islam, thereby countering misinformation and building trust between communities.
Expressing concern over what he described as a rise in communal tensions, Madani said that while Muslims had faced difficulties under previous governments, the present situation has also seen their religion, beliefs, and principles coming under increasing scrutiny. He stressed that hatred cannot be defeated with more hatred, adding that only love, affection, and brotherhood can overcome divisions in society. According to Madani, the true spirit of Islam lies in standing with people of every faith during times of happiness and hardship, resolving their problems wherever possible, and demonstrating the religion’s message through good character and actions. He also appealed to all Indians to work together to create an atmosphere of peace and communal harmony.
During his interaction with reporters, Madani also commented on several national issues. Referring to the alleged NEET paper leak, he said the matter affects the future of lakhs of students and should be addressed with sensitivity and urgency. On the proposed demolition of Maulana Mohammad Ali Jauhar University in Rampur, he said the institution should not be demolished, arguing that if there were legal or procedural violations, the authorities could impose penalties instead of razing the university, as thousands of students’ futures depend on it. Responding to questions on the Gyanvapi dispute, Madani observed that meaningful mediation is only possible when all parties are willing to engage in dialogue.
