Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind Demands Explanation from AIUDF Chief Over Alleged Communal Alliance
In a significant development that could reshape Assam's political landscape, the Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind has issued a formal notice to its Assam president and AIUDF chief Maulana Badruddin Ajmal. The organization has demanded a written explanation within 24 hours regarding his alleged alliance with what it describes as a 'communal political party' during his party's election campaign.
Notice Seeks Clarification on Political Ties
The notice, signed by JUH general secretary Maulana Hakimuddin Qasmi, specifically asks Ajmal to explain the objectives and circumstances behind his actions. While the document does not explicitly name the political party in question, it has triggered concerns about potential repercussions among Muslim voters in Assam.
Speaking to media representatives, Ajmal responded to the development, stating, "We have sought time from Jamiat and will make our position clear after the election." He further clarified, "We don't have any alliance with BJP. It was never there and will never happen in the future."
Political Speculation and Campaign Dynamics
Political insiders suggest the 'communal political party' referenced in the notice likely points to All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) president Asaduddin Owaisi, who has been actively campaigning for Ajmal and other AIUDF candidates. Owaisi has conducted nine campaign rallies where he emphasized, "Muslims have lived in Assam for over 150 years. No one can destroy their presence."
During these rallies, Owaisi accused Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma of using threatening language against the 'miya' community and undermining the dignity of public office. Sarma responded sharply, claiming Owaisi was "weaponising the Miya community" for electoral gains.
Complex Electoral Mathematics
The controversy unfolds against a complex electoral backdrop where Congress has accused Ajmal of being BJP's 'B' team, a charge he has vehemently denied. Meanwhile, Congress and AIUDF share the same Muslim vote bloc, which constitutes approximately 30% of Assam's electorate—roughly 75 lakh voters.
Even after recent delimitation exercises, Muslim voters remain decisive in 22 out of 126 constituencies. A source close to the AIUDF chief revealed, "We are giving a tough fight to Congress in many seats," while confirming Owaisi's close personal relationship with Ajmal.
Historical Context and Organizational Principles
Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind, one of India's leading organizations of Islamic scholars belonging to the Deobandi school of thought, holds significant influence among Muslim voters. Hafiz Bashir Ahmed Qasimi of the state Jamiat Ulama noted, "There are many Muslim organizations which have a say among Muslim voters, but Jamiat's influence is the biggest."
The notice references the organization's historic August 1951 working committee meeting under Maulana Syed Husain Ahmad Madani, which established a clear policy: members and office bearers must avoid associations with communal organizations and instead align only with political forces committed to national unity, constitutional values, and India's plural fabric.
Ajmal's Political Journey and Current Contest
Badruddin Ajmal, who holds a master's degree in theology and Arabic from Darul Uloom Deoband and is a devout follower of the Deobandi tradition, is attempting a return to state politics after two decades. He first entered the Assam assembly in 1996 and will now contest from the Binnakandi constituency following his defeat to Congress in the 2024 Lok Sabha election from Dhubri—a seat he had held since 2009.
The Jamiat's notice warns that if Ajmal's response proves unsatisfactory, the organization will take appropriate action under its rules and constitution. According to the Jamiat, Ajmal's alleged political understanding with a communal party represents a departure from its principled line, making this development particularly significant as Assam approaches crucial electoral decisions.
