Lucknow Shia Leaders Seek Anti-Lynching Laws And Greater Political Representation Nationwide
In Lucknow, the All-India Shia Personal Law Board (AISPLB) has called for stronger political representation, legal safeguards, and heritage protection for India’s Shia community. Speaking at its annual convention at Bada Imambara, leaders emphasised the need for anti-mob lynching laws, reservation in education and employment, inclusion of Imam Hussain in school curricula, and accelerated restoration of historic waqf properties. The move highlights ongoing efforts to ensure civic equity, minority rights, and social accountability across India.
At the convention, Maulana Agha Syed Abbas Rizvi from Jammu & Kashmir highlighted the underrepresentation of Shia Muslims in both central and state governments, despite a population of 7–8 crore nationwide. “Political representation of our community in Parliament and state assemblies is the need of the hour,” he said, drawing attention to systemic gaps that have limited the community’s influence in legislative and civic decision-making.The AISPLB passed a resolution urging the creation of reserved constituencies for Shia Muslims, modelled on provisions currently in place for Dalits and women. Leaders stressed that equitable representation is vital to protect minority interests and promote inclusive governance. They also called for enhanced participation in central committees, including the Central Haj Committee, to ensure the community’s concerns are addressed in national policymaking.
Heritage and educational reforms were also central to the discussion. The board appealed to the Uttar Pradesh government to grant independent waqf status to Husainabad Waqf and to accelerate restoration of historic structures under the Husainabad Trust. Leaders emphasised the inclusion of Imam Hussain’s teachings in school curricula, presenting his historical stand for justice and humanity as a model for civic responsibility and ethical conduct.On legal protections, the AISPLB demanded stronger anti-mob lynching laws and opposed the proposed Uniform Civil Code. The resolution also called for reconsideration of certain NRC provisions, reflecting the board’s concern for both minority rights and social security. Members urged strict enforcement of laws safeguarding religious processions, particularly during Muharram, and condemned the use of religious premises for commercial purposes, such as film shoots, that undermine the sanctity of sacred spaces.The board also highlighted socio-economic equity, advocating for reservations in education and employment for Shia Muslims, withdrawal of the Waqf Amendment Act 2024, and the establishment of a national Waqf protection commission. Leaders additionally encouraged the community to reject dowry practices, promoting social reform alongside legal and political advocacy.
Urban analysts note that conventions like AISPLB’s reflect broader efforts to enhance civic inclusion and minority protection in Indian cities. By combining advocacy for political representation, heritage preservation, legal safeguards, and social reform, the board demonstrates how community-led initiatives can influence governance, reinforce social cohesion, and promote ethical urban citizenship.The Lucknow gathering thus reinforced the need for systemic reforms, signalling a concerted push by the Shia community to secure equitable participation, protection, and recognition in India’s civic and political framework.
