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The ulama of the Dar al-ulum at Deoband were the symbols of political radicalism during the anti -colonial struggle in the subcontinent. Most of them were aligned with the Indian National Congress and rejected the two- nation theory. Today, however, the ‘loyalty’ of the same institution is in doubt. In the eyes of its detractors, the seminary at Deobandis supposed to train jehadis or terrorists. Last week, the turbaned men with flowing gowns gathered in Deoband to dispel such false impressions. They put up an impressive show.

Their message was loud and clear; first, Islam is unequivocally opposed to the indiscriminate use of violence; second Muslim institutions had no links whatsoever with terrorist groups; finally, Muslims were fully behind the Indian state in its fight against terror.

The ulama have done well to take an unequivocal stand, particularly because they have been targeted in the print and electronic media for nurturing the monster of terrorism. It must be pointed out, however, that they have reaffirmed what has been an article of faith with them for decades.

Our vibrant Republic is over six decades old. Why, then, is it necessary to express one’s allegiance to the Indian state? Why should Muslims take the lead in raising their voice against terrorism? Others should also do so. As citizens of India all of us, Hindus, Muslims, Christians and Sikhs, distance ourselves from the perpetrators of violence. Nobody has implicated any Muslim institution in an act of terror in India. If the poet Ghalib had been alive, he would have said, phirye hungama ai khuda kya hai (Why, then, is there all this commotion?). On the contrary, there is sufficient documentary evidence of RSS and Arya Samaj schools and colleges spreading venomous propaganda against the Muslims and Christians. Should their mentors sit back and allow this to happen?

One watched the congregation at Deoband with some anguish. It’s encouraging the ulama of different ’schools’ had joined hands over vital issues, but distressing that they had done so under pressure from civil society. They should eschew such public demonstrations and concentrate their energies on the rebuilding and modernization of their institutions, secular and religious.