Nashik (Press Release): The true beauty of India lies in its rich Ganga-Jamuni culture, religious diversity, varied traditions and the mutual unity and harmony among followers of all religions. However, it is unfortunate that attempts are being made to undermine this beautiful identity of the country. The Indian Constitution guarantees every citizen religious freedom and fundamental rights. In such circumstances, attempts to interfere in religious and family matters through the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) are a matter of serious concern.

These views were expressed by All India Sunni Jamiat-ul-Ulama National President Hazrat Maulana Syed Moinuddin Ashraf, popularly known as Moin Miyan, while addressing an important press conference held at Shahi Masjid, Ghas Bazaar, in Nashik.

He said that India's beauty lies in its religious tolerance and mutual harmony among people belonging to different faiths. However, efforts are being made to disturb this harmony. If people are beginning to feel that the Constitution is being tampered with, it is an extremely serious matter. The government must respect the religious rights and constitutional freedoms of every citizen.

To clarify the Muslim community's stand on the issue of the Uniform Civil Code, an important press conference was organised on Saturday, November 7, at the historic Shahi Masjid in Old Nashik. Representatives of All India Sunni Jamiat-ul-Ulama, Raza Academy and Sunni Seerat Committee, Nashik, jointly opposed the UCC and emphasised the need to safeguard religious freedom and Islamic Shariah.

Hazrat Moin Miyan further stated that the Indian Constitution grants followers of every religion the right to live according to their beliefs, religious traditions, personal laws and family practices. Matters such as marriage, divorce, inheritance and other family-related issues are closely connected with the religious teachings and traditions of each community. The government should refrain from unnecessary interference in such matters. He expressed concern that the implementation of the Uniform Civil Code could create several difficulties for Muslims in following Shariah laws and managing their family affairs.

Those present at the press conference included Raza Academy chief Haji Mohammed Saeed Raza Noori, city preacher Hafiz Husamuddin, Hafiz Sameer Kokni, Hafiz Raza Khatib, Maulana Junaid Alam, Qari Afzal, former corporator Gulzar Kokni, Asif Janori, Sameer Khan, Zakir Attar, Babbu Shaikh, along with office-bearers of various religious and social organisations, Islamic scholars and social activists.

At the conclusion of the press conference, an appeal was made to the public to create awareness about the Uniform Civil Code and submit their views and objections before the government to ensure the protection of religious freedom, constitutional rights and the spirit of unity and tolerance among all religious communities.

Addressing the gathering, Raza Academy chief Haji Mohammed Saeed Raza Noori said that the Indian Constitution grants every citizen the fundamental right to religious freedom. Therefore, the government should not unnecessarily interfere in the personal, religious and family lives of people belonging to any faith. Instead of implementing the Uniform Civil Code, the beliefs, traditions and religious teachings of all communities should be respected.