Mahmood Madani on RSS, Muslim Politics, and Misuse of ‘Jihad’
'Islam doesn’t need change, Muslims do,' says Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind president Mahmood Madani
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Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind chief Mahmood Madani, in a candid conversation with The Quint’s Shadab Moizee, touched on everything from engaging with the RSS to the challenges before Muslims, disputes over Gyanvapi and Mathura, and his own political role.
Madani clarified that while he has disagreements with the RSS, he is not against dialogue.
Madani acknowledged his family’s political past but said he had no regrets. While not ruling out re-entry into politics, he added, ''I cannot say I’ll jump at the first chance. But if an opportunity comes, my door isn’t closed. But we have always opposed the idea of a Muslim-only party. Two or four MPs may win, but the losses will outweigh the benefits.”
Madani also hit out at opposition parties for failing their role.
Madani said the word “jihad” had been deliberately distorted. He said, “I am a Muslim, so I consider it my duty to sacrifice for my country. For me, it will be an honour.” He called those linking jihad to love or land conspirators against Islam. Referring to Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma, Madani said, “You may be CM or PM, but go get your brain treated. If you can’t, you are the enemy of the nation and a traitor.”
Madani stressed education as the community’s biggest need. He added that Islam doesn’t need “upgradation,” but Muslims must change their attitude—towards women, children, expenses, and lifestyle.
Madani’s interview captured both candour and confrontation, urging Muslims to focus on education and dialogue while calling out political failures. Watch the full conversation to hear him in his own words.