By TwoCircles.net Special Correspondent
Lucknow: Irked over poor response from the state government Imam-e-Juma Maulana Kalbe Jawwad Naqvi resigned as Imam of historical Asafi Mosque in Lucknow on Thursday. His resignation sparked resentment among the Shia community as Jawwad has blamed the state government for non fulfillment of their assurances. The Friday Namaz on July 6 is likely to have tension as Jawwad is not relenting on his announcement. Asafi Masjid is under Hussainabad and Allied Trust.
Jawwad leads the Friday prayer of Shia Muslims at the Asafi Mosque built by Nawab Asaf-ud-Daula inside the premises of Bara Imambara.
However, Jawwad handed over the Imamat of the Asafi Masjid to Dr Kalbe Sadiq. He also clarified that in absence of Dr Kalbe Sadiq the Juma Namaz will be led by Maulana Mohd Haider. The nomination has been done by Jawwad as it is a tradition of Imam of Asafi Masjid to nominate his successor.
Maulana Jawwad cited three reasons for his resignation.
His long pending demand for removal of Chairman of Shia Waqf Board, Syed Waseem Rizvi. Waseem Rizvi submitted his resignation from the Chairmanship of Shia Waqf Board. However as per provisions of Central Waqf Act he is still acting Chairman till new one is elected.
Inquiry on the attack on Asafi Masjid. It occurred when handful of people allegedly opposed Kalbe Jawwad. This led to violent clash between two groups.
Inquiry in the sale of waqf properties during past ten years. “Despite announcement by the state government there has been no action on these demands. I had announced earlier that I will resign from the Imamat if these demands are not fulfilled and thus I am resigning,” he
said.