In a video appeal, the renowned cleric asks voters to back MVA to strengthen minority rights
Team Clarion
MUMBAI – Renowned cleric Maulana Sajjad Naumani has urged the people of Mumbra Kausa in Thane District to support Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) in the upcoming Maharashtra Assembly elections. In a video message, Maulana Naumani appealed to voters to choose the MVA candidate as a stand against “fascist forces” and to help secure the rights of minorities and other vulnerable communities.
In a meeting held at Safa Masjid near Mumbra Bypass Road, around 150 scholars and imams from local mosques gathered, joined by MLA Jitendra Awhad. During the event, Maulana Naumani expressed his mixed feelings towards the MVA, acknowledging existing grievances but emphasising the need for collective action. “We are not fully satisfied with the MVA, and we have voiced several complaints to their leaders. I have conveyed these concerns to the central leadership directly,” he said, noting that representatives from the MVA’s high command have assured him that his grievances are being addressed.
Maulana Naumani stressed the importance of defeating divisive forces, expressing his hope for a government that would commit to justice and upholds constitutional rights for Muslims and other marginalised groups. “If the fascist forces are weakened, the MVA government that follows can be made to act fairly. We will push them to secure rights not just for Muslims, but for all disadvantaged communities,” he asserted.
Reflecting on issues beyond the community, Maulana Naumani expressed alarm at the state of Maharashtra’s farmers, many of whom have been driven to despair. “It deeply concerns us that farmer suicides are on the rise in Maharashtra. It is essential that their voices, too, are heard and that they are freed from oppression,” he stated.
In the discussion, Maulana Naumani acknowledged the dissatisfaction some local scholars hold towards the MVA’s candidate, who was invited to address the group directly. “The scholars here had complaints, and I believe it was their right to voice them. So, we called the candidate before the scholars, and the discussion was open and frank. While some misunderstandings came to light, it also became clear that better communication is needed,” he explained.
Maulana Abdul Wahab Qasmi, present at the meeting, highlighted specific issues addressed with the MVA representative. “The local assembly member faced criticism for beginning a cemetery project without proper permits. He later secured the necessary documentation to legalise it. We also raised concerns about the delayed opening of a hospital in the area, and he promised it would be fully operational soon,” Maulana Qasmi said.
With the assembly elections approaching, Maulana Naumani’s message underscores the growing unity in Mumbra Kausa, as local religious leaders and community members rally around common issues, advocating for change through mutual understanding and support.