Jamiat-Ulama-i-Hind wants separate law for inciting violence against Muslims

The JUH has been making separate demands during its three-day conclave in Delhi. It wants a separate law for those insulting Islam

New Delhi, Feb 11: Islamic outfit Jamiat-Ulama-i-Hind (JUH) has demanded a separate law to specifically punish those inciting violence against Muslims.

The JUH, which is the oldest Muslim body is holding its 34th general session at the Ramlila Ground in Delhi. The session is headed by Maulana Mahmud Madani. On the first day of the three day conclave, the JUH passed many resolutions, one of which was against the alleged rise in hate campaigns and Islamaphobia.

The JUH while playing the victim card claimed that in recent years, the growth in Islamaphobia, including acts of hatred and incitement against the Muslim community has escalated to alarming levels.

It also accused the Centre of adopting an ostrich-like-approach towards the issue and alleged that several BJP MLAs and MPs are poisoning the atmosphere of the country by giving hateful statements.

The most regrettable fact is, while being aware of the developments, the government prefers to take an ostrich-like-approach, said senior JUH leader, Niaz Faruqi. The authorities are conveniently overlooking these incidents despite reports from several international organisations. The cordial nature of the county is being poisoned by the hateful statements of several BJP leaders, members of state assembles and Members of Parliament, he also said.

The Jamiat cited a law commission recommended which had said that a separate law should be enacted to specifically punish those involved in inciting violence against minorities and efforts to boycott or isolate the Muslim community socio-economically.

Action should be taken against the agencies which do not pay attention to these issues, the resolution by the JUH also said.

The Law Commission of India's 267th report said that hate speech is an incitement to hatred directed primarily at a group of people who are recognised by their race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation or other characteristics.

The report of 2017 had recommended amendments to the Indian Penal Code and Code of Criminal Procedure. The commission was headed by B S Chauhan who had suggested adding new provisions on Prohibiting incitement to hatred' following section 153B of the IPC. 'Causing fear alarm or provocation in violence in certain cases' following action 505 IPC and accordingly amending the First Schedule of CrPC.

The Jamiat had also passed a separate resolution which demanded measures against the alleged anti-Islam mindset and defamatory content on Prophet Mohammad. In case blasphemous content is aired by a channel or on the social media or the sentiments of Muslims are deliberately hurt, then the selected people should file FIR and take legal action, the JUH also said.