New Delhi: In a powerful address on Friday, Syed Ahmad Bukhari, the Shahi Imam of Jama Masjid, condemned terrorism and the killing of innocent individuals, labeling such actions as a “sin.” Many worshippers attending the Friday prayers wore black bands on their arms in protest against the brutal attack in Pahalgam on April 22, which resulted in 28 fatalities.
Bukhari emphasized that terrorism cannot be justified under any circumstances and rejected claims that such acts align with Islamic principles, particularly in reference to the barbaric targeting and killing of people.
He expressed deep concern over recent incidents, including an occurrence in Agra where individuals were allegedly killed after being identified as Muslims. “Terrorism is not a solution to any issue,” he stated, urging the nation to unite like a “strong rock” to safeguard India’s honor, transcending religious divides between Hindus and Muslims.
Highlighting the loyalty of Indian Muslims, Bukhari noted, “The Muslims of India have always stood for the country.” He pointed out that every citizen, whether Hindu or Muslim, is affected by the current situation, resulting in the loss of countless innocent lives, some buried and others unaccounted for.
Bukhari criticized Pakistan’s alleged role in promoting terrorism in India, stating, “The terror attacks orchestrated through Pakistan, leading to the deaths of innocents, cannot be justified.” He accused Pakistan of fostering hatred within India, which creates challenges for Indian Muslims striving for peace.
He questioned, “Does Pakistan have an answer for the difficulties faced by Muslims in business and daily life due to such actions?” Furthermore, he recounted his previous advice to Pakistani leaders, urging them during the inception of the BJP government in India to improve relations with New Delhi for mutual benefit, and noted his similar counsel to former Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf. He highlighted that groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed create problems for Indian Muslims, with Pakistan’s ISI allegedly playing a key role.
“Terrorism and war have never solved any problems,” Bukhari reiterated, questioning the trajectory of both the world and the nation. He referenced the situation in Kashmir, where selective killings of Hindus occurred, while also celebrating the bravery of Adil Hussain, a poor Kashmiri who sacrificed his life to protect Hindu tourists from terrorists.
“Why doesn’t the media report on such acts of humanity?” he asked. Bukhari praised the Kashmiri people for their compassion, noting that they provided shelter to Hindu pilgrims in times of crisis and protested against terrorism by offering free taxi services.
“Humanity is still alive, but barbarism, from any side, cannot be tolerated,” he asserted. He concluded by affirming that Indian Muslims have always supported those in distress, regardless of their religion, and called for a united effort to uphold the nation’s dignity.
During Friday Jumma prayers, across mosques, prayers were held for the peace of the victims of the recent Pahalgam terrorist attack.
