Who Is Maulana Mufti Shahabuddin Razvi? Scholar Who Declared Jihad ‘Unlawful in India’ and Supported Yogi’s Vision of Akhand Bharat

Lucknow: A major national debate has erupted after Jamiat Ulama-e-Hind President Maulana Mahmood Madani recently stated that “wherever there is oppression, there will be jihad,” and even suggested including the concept of jihad in school curricula. His remarks triggered widespread controversy, with the strongest criticism coming from Maulana Mufti Shahabuddin Razvi Barelvi, the national president of All India Muslim Jamaat.

Razvi not only condemned Madani’s comments but also called him a “traitor”, accusing him of provoking Muslims and attempting to divide society.

“India Is Darul Salam — Jihad Is Unlawful Here”

Razvi stated that India is Darul Salam, meaning a land of peace and security, where jihad is not permissible under Islamic law. He warned that introducing jihad in schools would be “extremely dangerous” and could disturb communal harmony.

According to Razvi, Madani is trying to create conflict between Hindus and Muslims — a situation that would ultimately harm the Muslim community the most.

A Cleric Known for Strong and Controversial Statements

Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi has frequently been in the news for his sharp remarks:

• He once issued a fatwa declaring New Year celebrations un-Islamic.
• He praised Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath for the preparations of the 2025 Maha Kumbh.

Appeal to Muslims: “Do Not Oppose PM Modi”

Razvi has openly expressed opinions on political matters as well. He urged Muslims not to oppose PM Narendra Modi in Lok Sabha elections, arguing that only Muslims are blamed for anti-Modi sentiment while secular parties exploit this narrative for political gains.

Questioning Akhilesh Yadav

Razvi criticized Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, asking:
“How long will the Yadav family become UP Chief Minister with Muslim support?”
He demanded that in 2027, SP should appoint a Muslim Chief Minister.

Support for Yogi Adityanath’s ‘Akhand Bharat’ Remark

During the 2024 Jammu & Kashmir Assembly elections, CM Yogi Adityanath said that “Hindustan is incomplete without Sindh” and vowed to integrate Pakistan-occupied Kashmir into India.
Razvi openly supported Yogi’s statement, calling it justified.

Praise and Controversy Over Maha Kumbh

While he appreciated the scale and management of the 2025 Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj, he created controversy by claiming that 55 bighas of land used for the event belonged to the Waqf Board and was allowed only due to Muslim generosity.
The BJP rejected his claim, calling it an attempt to tarnish the image of Maha Kumbh.

Background of Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi

• Born: 4 April 1974, Bahraich, Uttar Pradesh
• Work: Active on Pasmanda Muslim issues for nearly a decade
• Positions:
  ▪ National President, All India Muslim Jamaat
  ▪ Founder, Islamic Research Centre
  ▪ National General Secretary, All India Tanzim Ulama-e-Islam
  ▪ Former General Secretary, All India Jamaat Raza-e-Mustafa

Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi remains a prominent and outspoken voice within the Barelvi community, often shaping public and political discourse with his strong opinions.