'Fatwa' against CM over his remark on Gandhian philosophy

Srinagar, Oct 7 (UNI) The Grand Mufti of Jammu and Kashmir Mufti Mohammad Bashir-ud-din Ahmad has issued a 'fatwa' against Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad for his remarks asking people to follow the Gandhian philosophy for success in the contemporary world.

The Grand Mufti in a one-page 'fatwa', directing him to seek repentance, in urdu issued yesterday said Prophet Mohammad and his teachings are the guidelines for the entire Muslim Ummah to lead their lives. Muslims have to follow the path shown by the last messenger of God, he said.

Mufti Bashir-ud-din said Prophet Mohammad brought the message of love and peace to the world. Therefore, it was not necessary for Muslims to follow the Gandhian philosophy.

''Forcing Muslims to follow Gandhian philosophy can be termed as an anti-Islamic activity,'' the Grand Mufti said and advised the Chief Minister to clarify his position and seek repentance from God in order to atone for his sin.

Otherwise, the 'fatwa' said, his activities could be treated as ''anti-Islamic''.

Earlier, chairman of the breakaway Hurriyat Conference (HC) and other separatist leaders described Mr Azad's remarks as ''anti-islamic'' and expressed surprise over the silence of Muslim Ulemas.

The Hurriyat chairman said it was very shocking that the Chief Minister came with such ''anti-religion'' remarks and gave priority to the Gandhian philosophy when we have Islam as a complete way of life.

Mr Geelani said Mr Azad should understand that Islam has made it clear that our deeds in the world pay in the hereafter.

He said he was shocked to see that Muslim clerics were mum on Mr Azad's remarks.

UNI