Maulana Mahmood Madani, president of the Jamiat Ulama-e-Hind, has once again sparked a political debate with his remarks at the organisation’s Governing Body Council meeting in Bhopal. Madani criticised recent court decisions and alleged that the judiciary is acting under government pressure.

Madani questions the Supreme Court
Speaking at the event, Madani claimed that cases such as the Babri Masjid dispute and triple talaq showed signs of “influence,” and said that hearings in the Gyanvapi and Mathura matters were conducted despite the existence of the Places of Worship Act.

Jihad explained as a misunderstood concept
During the same meeting, Madani addressed the use of the term “jihad.” He said that opponents of Islam had portrayed the word as violent, citing labels like “love jihad,” “land jihad,” and “spit jihad.” He described jihad in Islamic teachings as a moral duty tied to resisting injustice, not an act of violence.

He stated that, according to the Quran, jihad has multiple meanings related to social and moral upliftment, and when used in the context of conflict, it is meant to end oppression. Madani repeated, “Whenever there is oppression, there will be jihad,” but also clarified that decisions on armed conflict can only be taken by an Islamic government — a concept not applicable in a democratic country like India. Therefore, he said, jihad in India cannot be interpreted as a call for violence.

Madani also commented on Vande Mataram, saying that “living communities face challenges,” while “dead communities surrender,” a statement that drew further criticism.

BJP reacts sharply
The BJP strongly condemned Madani’s remarks, calling them inflammatory and demanding that the Supreme Court take cognizance. The party accused Madani of disrespecting the judiciary and using an “irresponsible term” in the current social climate.

VHP also condemns the statement
Vishwa Hindu Parishad spokesperson Vinod Bansal also criticised Madani, calling his comments an attempt to provoke tension. Bansal urged the Supreme Court to take strict action and questioned the examples Madani cited while discussing oppression and jihad. He argued that such statements undermine social harmony and national security.