Patna : A major controversy has erupted at Imarat Shariah following an alleged attempt to remove its leader, Ahmed Wali Faisal Rahmani, in what is being described as a “coup” orchestrated by JD(U)-backed Muslim leaders. The incident, which took place on March 29, has sparked outrage within the Muslim community, with many viewing it as political interference in a key religious institution.
The turmoil comes just days after Imarat Shariah, under Rahmani’s leadership, organized a massive protest against the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, pressuring Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar to oppose it. The protest, supported by prominent leaders such as Tejashwi Yadav and Lalu Prasad Yadav, was seen as a major success. However, two days later, an Iftar party hosted by Nitish Kumar reportedly saw a low turnout of Muslim leaders, signaling dissatisfaction within the community.
Allegations of a Politically Motivated Takeover
Following the failed Iftar event, JD(U) leaders Ahmad Ashfaque Karim and MLC Khalid Anwar allegedly orchestrated the takeover attempt by bringing in Maulana Anisur Rahman Qasmi, Maulana Abu Talib Rahmani, and Maulana Shibli Qasmi, who, with police protection, sought to take control of the Imarat Shariah offices.
In response, Imarat Shariah issued a statement accusing JD(U) of engineering the incident to install leaders aligned with Nitish Kumar. The statement also named several individuals allegedly involved in the move, including Maulana Abdur Rauf, Mufti Nazar Tauheed Mazahari, and Advocate Raghib Ahsan, among others.
Conflicting Claims and Community Backlash
A counter-statement was issued by Maulana Shibli Qasmi, claiming that a Board of Trustees had removed Faisal Rahmani and appointed Anisur Rahman Qasmi as the new Ameer. However, the letter, signed by Qasmi as “Nazim,” lacked an official date or reference number, raising doubts about its legitimacy.
Meanwhile, JD(U) leader Ahmad Ashfaque Karim denied knowledge of police involvement, while Maulana Abu Talib Rahmani admitted to bringing security forces inside for “protection.” His justification, however, has not convinced many within the community.
The timing of the alleged coup has also raised suspicions. Critics argue that if concerns about Faisal Rahmani’s citizenship were genuine, they should have been addressed through legal means rather than a forceful takeover.
Widespread Support for Faisal Rahmani
In the wake of the controversy, widespread support has poured in for Faisal Rahmani, with intellectuals and activists condemning the attempt to unseat him. Professor Nasim Akhtar of Akhtar Legalitarian urged the community to stand by Rahmani, warning that the institution risks falling under government influence.
S.M. Sarwar Hussain, former president of AMUSU, echoed similar concerns, emphasizing that Rahmani’s role in opposing the Waqf Bill was a major reason for the move against him. “This is a direct attack on Imarat Shariah and its independence,” he stated on social media.
The controversy has further deepened divisions within the community, with many seeing the incident as an attempt to weaken resistance against the government’s policies affecting Muslim institutions.
