No Insult Intended: Imran Ansari On Viral Clip Controversy

(MENAFN- Kashmir Observer) Srinagar – Senior Peoples Conference leader and Shia cleric Imran Reza Ansari has denied allegations that he insulted the companions of Prophet Muhammad (Pbuh), calling the claims“unfounded” and the result of a misrepresented video clip circulated online.

In a detailed statement issued on Sunday, Imran Ansari sought to clarify his position after a video clip triggered backlash on social media and among certain religious quarters. The video, purportedly from a recent religious gathering, was shared with claims that Imran Ansari had made derogatory remarks against the revered Sahaba (companions) of the Prophet - a highly sensitive and polarizing issue within the Islamic world.

“I want to state without ambiguity that this allegation is unfounded,” he said, rejecting the interpretation being circulated. He emphasised that his comments were taken out of context and distorted to provoke unnecessary sectarian tensions.

“The interpretation being pushed onto my words is not only inaccurate but also ignores the broader context and intent of what was said,” he said.

Imran Ansari, who heads J&K Shia Association, reiterated his commitment to inter-sectarian harmony and respect. He explicitly aligned himself with the fatwas of two of the world's most influential Shia Maraja - Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani of Iraq and Ayatollah Sayyed Ali Khamenei of Iran - both of whom prohibit insulting the sanctities of Ahl al-Sunnah.

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“This is not a tactical position, but a principled one,” he asserted, adding that any path toward meaningful unity within the Muslim Ummah must begin with mutual respect, not provocation, distortion, or sectarian one-upmanship.

Acknowledging the emotions the video may have stirred, Imran said,“The video in question, while selectively edited and misrepresented, may have struck a nerve for some. I acknowledge that, but I reiterate: no disrespect was intended.” He further clarified,“I was not aiming at disrespecting any Sahaba, nor did I mention one. I meant no offence, and I value the perspectives and sentiments involved.”

Imran Ansari concluded by reaffirming his commitment to his faith and his approach to Islam.“I remain unapologetic about my faith and my understanding of Islam. I see no contradiction between holding firmly to this truth and simultaneously advocating for respectful engagement with all Muslims.”

The controversy comes at a time when Kashmir's religious and political spaces are increasingly shaped by online discourse, where statements made by clerics are often subjected to selective amplification and polarizing interpretations.

Imran Ansari's clarification came a day after the Mutahida Majlis-e-Ulema (MMU) - an umbrella body Sunni and Shia Muslims of Kashmir- expressed grave concern over his 'inflammatory' statements. MMU had demanded legal action against Imran Ansari in view of the 'gravity of the situation and its potential to provoke public unrest' and called for his social boycott.

Imran Ansari also faced flak from several leading Shia leaders and groups including Agha Syed Hassan al Moosavi, Agha Syed Muhammad Hadi, Maulana Masroor Abbas Ansari, Srinagar member of Parliament Aga Ruhullah Mehdi and Majlis-e-Ulama-e-Imamia.

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