Eminent Islamic scholar from Pakistan, Dr Tahir-ul-Qadri has been actively campaigning against radicalism across the world. In an interview to Pramod Kumar he said Muslims nations should collectively fight to exterminate radicalisation.
- What measures should be taken to de-radicalise the youth who are keen to join the ISIS?
All countries whether Muslim or non-Muslim, secular or religious, should come together and fight against the ISIS to terminate them from their roots. De-radicalistion should also be taught in schools and universities.
- But the radicals also quote the same Hadith and Quranic verses in support of their Jihad. What do you say?
They quote the holy books out of context. I have written a book ‘ISIS Exposed through Prophetic Traditions’ which will be published shortly. It will prove to be a good counter-narrative. The Quranic verses are also misunderstood. People take a part of the verse and start quoting out of context.
- A large number of Muslims are seen to be soft on extremists?
Since I am fighting against the radicals theologically, ideologically, philosophically and academically I should be the first man to be disheartened because people are not coming forward. But I am not disappointed. What I have told you I say it in Pakistan, US, Egypt and in Arab countries.
- If individuals are weak why can’t the Islamic countries or global Islamic organisations stand against radicalisation?
I agree with you. This is the duty of the state as well. Such a big force cannot be fought by individuals. Islamic states should take this initiative.
- There are discussions in India whether to say ‘Bharat Mata ki Jai or not. Some Muslim leaders say they will not say it. Being an Islamic scholar what are your thoughts?
This discussion has nothing to do with Islam as a religion. To me ‘Mata’ means mother. In every language and every nation we respect mother. In English we say motherland, you say Bharatmata. In Urdu and Iranian or Persian we say ‘Madre Watan’. Everybody loves his Watan–the motherland. There is absolutely no harm in it. It is compulsory for everybody to love his Watan.
- Why can’t the Islamic countries or global Islamic organisations stand against radicalisation?
I agree with you. This is the duty of the state as well. Such a big force cannot be fought by individuals. Islamic states should take this initiative.
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