Samastha doesn’t support theocratic State, but advocates freedom to live as per faith: Jifri Thangal

The Samastha does not stand for the idea of a theocratic State, but firmly believes that the country should ensure conditions for people to live according to their religious faith, Samastha president Sayyid Muhammed Jifri Muthu Koya Thangal has said.

He was delivering the message at a reception accorded to the Samastha Centenary Yatra in Chavakkad, Thrissur, on Tuesday as part of the campaign for the organisation’s 100th anniversary conference.

The Thangal said the Samastha would stand with all those who cooperated in protecting religion and would actively intervene in every effort aimed at the welfare of the nation. “Not a single statement against the Constitution of India has ever come from the Samastha, and it never will,” he said.

Referring to the Special Intensive Revision of elector list, he said people should be educated on safeguarding their citizenship rights. He also warned against attempts by any group to exclude or suppress others, cautioning that such moves could have serious consequences.

He said the Samastha Kerala Jam-iyyathul Ulama was not an organisation rooted only in the Muslim community, but one that had found a place in the hearts of Hindus, Christians, believers and non-believers alike. He called for vigilance against pseudo-religious movements that diluted the essence of faith.

The reception meeting was inaugurated by All India Congress Committee secretary T.N. Prathapan. Samastha district president Abdu Khader Musliyar Painkanniyoor presidied. N.K. Akbar, MLA, attended as chief guest.

Mr. Prathapan said the Samastha Centenary Message Yatra had gained added relevance at a time when constitutional values and the country’s freedom were under threat. “We live in times that seek to divide humanity in the name of religion. Attempts are being made to create fear and exploit faith for political gain. Secular Kerala will stand firm with the Samastha to defeat such forces,” he said.