Thousands condole death of former Shahi Imam of Jama Masjid

New Delhi, July 9 (ANI): Muslims from all walks of life condoled the demise of the former Shahi Imam of Jama Masjid, Maulana Syed Abdullah Bukhari.

"In his whole life, he served his nation and Islam. Today, we regret that the great scholar has left us. I am sure that after his death his successors will carry forward his tradition of secularism," said Ghulam Nabi Azad, Health Minister.

Eighty-seven-year-old Hazrat Maulana Syed Abdullah Bukhari breathed his last at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) hospital after a long illness on Wednesday.

"He was ill for more than a month and was admitted in AIIMS since June 9. He was kept on ventilator as he was suffering from multiple problems and chest infection as well. Overall, he was nearing his death," said Yahi Ya Bukhari, Bukhari's son.

Abdullah Bukhari was born in Rajasthan and was educated in Delhi. He was the 12th Shahi Imam.

Throughout his life, he vehemently raised his voice against oppression and injustice.

During the partition of India in 1947, he risked his life to rescue Muslims besieged by Hindu rioters in various parts of Delhi by bringing them to the safety of the Jama Masjid.

He made arrangements for their relief and rehabilitation. (ANI)