New Delhi: In an effort to foster moderation and interfaith unity, Dr Mohammad Bin Abdulkarim al-Issa, Secretary-General of the World Muslim League, has embarked on a six-day visit to India. The visit comes at a time when the country is engaged in a debate surrounding the Uniform Civil Code, prompting discussions on women’s rights and the need for a uniform law to protect them in areas such as marriage, divorce, and inheritance.
The World Muslim League, founded and funded by Saudi Arabia, has gained recognition as a credible platform for reforms in Islamic ideas globally. Dr al-Issa, who previously served as the Justice Minister of Saudi Arabia, has been instrumental in spearheading these reforms.
During his visit, Dr al-Issa aims to promote interfaith harmony and establish connections between Indian political and religious leaders and the global Islamic community. His visit is also regarded as a significant step in India’s pursuit of counter-radicalism, religious moderation, and building ties with peace-seeking entities, aligning with the country’s foreign policy objectives.
Dr al-Issa’s first interaction with Indian Muslims will be in the presence of national security adviser Ajit Doval, who has demonstrated a genuine commitment to improving relations between the Indian government and the Muslim community. The joint session at the India-Islamic Cultural Centre, a prominent hub for Muslim-related activities in the capital city, is expected to address both the importance of moderation and the concerns surrounding the persecution of Indian Muslims.
Given the World Muslim League’s mandate to safeguard Islamic Shariah, people may seek Dr al-Issa’s opinion on the Uniform Civil Code and its potential impact on Shariah-guided civil laws. While the views of Ajit Doval, representing the government, can be anticipated, there is significant interest in hearing Dr al-Issa’s perspective.
Previously, the World Muslim League had been associated with supporting radical organizations worldwide, including some in India. However, with the advent of Prince Mohammed Bin Salman’s Vision 2030, which aims to bring about extensive reforms, the organization has undergone significant changes. Dr al-Issa’s appointment as Secretary-General reflects his commitment to constitutionalizing state laws and promoting a current interpretation of the Quran, aiming to foster harmony and unity while discouraging discord.
Dr al-Issa has also been vocal about the importance of Muslim integration in Western countries, opposing the Wahhabi ideology that has been the official creed of the Saudi monarchy. He believes that political Islam does not align with the true values of Islam and hinders the assimilation of Muslims in non-Muslim nations.
Appointed as the Khateeb of Hajj 1443 Hijri by King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud in July 2022, Dr al-Issa emphasized the significance of harmony and compassion in Muslim interactions while urging believers not to be influenced by those seeking division or obstruction.
Under Dr al-Issa’s leadership, the World Muslim League has embraced the vision of Vision 2030, adapting conservative Islamic doctrines to suit the requirements of the modern age. Saudi Arabia’s religious doctrine is undergoing centralization and transformation, departing from blind adherence to specific teachings or scholars.
Dr Shujaat Ali Quadri, Chairman of the Muslim Students Organization of India, authored this article.