Bhatkal: All India Muslim Personal Law Board member Maulana Abu Talib Rahmani has urged Muslims around the world not to surrender to fear or despair, but to uphold moral values and actively work against social evils.
He delivered the keynote address at a programme organised at Tanzeem Millia Masjid in Nawayat Colony, Bhatkal, as part of Rabi-ul-Awwal observances marking the birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad. His address centred on the theme of the life and teachings of Prophet Muhammad and social reform.
“Darkness has no existence in the presence of light. Once light appears, darkness disappears. Muslims too are like flickering lamps in this world,” Rahmani said.
Describing Prophet Muhammad as a role model for all of humanity, he said Muslims carry a responsibility to oppose wrongdoing and contribute to social reform through good character and ethical conduct.
Rahmani raised particular concern over the growing problem of drug and alcohol abuse among young people. Referring to India’s large youth population, he warned that narcotics pose a direct threat to the nation’s future.
“India has a very large young population, around 65 per cent, and the future of the country depends on its youth. If young people are pushed towards drugs, the country itself will be weakened,” he said.
He called on Muslims to take an active role in preventing narcotics from reaching young people and in spreading awareness about substance abuse. He also flagged concern over the reported availability of intoxicating substances through products such as chocolates.
Rahmani spoke about the hijab controversy in Karnataka, referring to Mandya student Muskan Khan raising the slogan “Allahu Akbar” as an expression of courage and Islamic identity.
On the subject of modesty, he argued that greater adoption of hijab among Muslim women could influence industries built around fashion, cosmetics and physical appearance.
He stressed that the strength of the Muslim community should not be measured by numbers alone, but by character, modesty, compassion and commitment to ethical values.
“Strengthening our country and protecting society from social evils is also part of the message of the Prophet,” he said, urging Muslims to ensure they do not themselves fall victim to the very evils they seek to oppose.
The programme was presided over by Majlis-e-Millia Nawayat Colony president Atiqur Rahman Muneeri. Several Islamic scholars attended, including Qazi Jamaat-ul-Muslimeen Maulana Abdul Rab Nadvi, Maulana S M Irfan Nadvi, Maulana Ansar Khateeb Madani, and Maulana Abdul Raqeeb M J Nadvi. A large number of people attended the event.
