Sadhus and saints demand close surveillance of ‘Aalami Tablighi Ijtema’ in Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh)

Muslim delegates from 40 countries, including Pakistan and Bangladesh, to participate

Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh) – The 78^thAalami Tablighi Ijtema (International Tablighi Congregation) will be held in Bhopal from 14 to 17 November. Delegates from around 40 countries, including Pakistan and Bangladesh, are expected to attend this large-scale religious gathering. In view of the event, sadhus and saints have urged the government to monitor and record the entire programme closely, citing national security concerns. They stated that every pavilion, individual, and activity must remain under administrative vigilance. (If saints can understand this concern, why can’t the administration? – Editor)

Meeting between saints and administration

Mahamandaleshwar Anilanand Maharaj, President of the All India Sadhu-Sant Sannyasi Parishad

Anilānand Maharaj, President of the Akhil Bharatiya Sadhu-Sant Sannyasi Parishad, said after meeting government officials that the administration is given full access to monitor every pavilion during large Hindu gatherings like the Mahakumbh. Similarly, the authorities should be allowed to record and supervise all sections of the Ijtema grounds. He added that under the guise of religious assemblies, anti-national statements or activities cannot be ruled out; therefore, precautionary measures are essential.

Demand for surveillance similar to Mahakumbh

The saints have demanded that the Ijtema be monitored on the same scale as the Mahakumbh. “If drone surveillance and video recording are permitted at the Mahakumbh, why not at the Ijtema?” they asked. They plan to meet the Chief Minister soon to submit an official memorandum regarding this demand.

Ijtema held in only three countries

The Aalami Tablighi Ijtema is organised annually in only three countries — Pakistan, Bangladesh, and India (specifically in Bhopal). Every year, lakhs of Muslims from across the world participate in this religious congregation.