Mumbai violence: Decoding ‘violent’ Raza Academy

Located in the heart of the Muslim locality at 52 Dontar Street, Damar Gali, Khadak, near Mohammed Ali Road, Raza Academy is a known name.

Formed in 1978, its main purpose was to print and publish books written by the Barelvi sect founder Alahazrat Imam Ahmed Raza and other writers of Ahlesunnat Jamaat.

“We are the only Idara (organisation) in India and Pakistan that has published over 700 books. Our organisation published books of Sunni preachers,” said Saeed Noori, founder-president. “We also take up issues related to the community like providing relief during disasters and defending the community’s rights.”

Among the issues the academy have defended include Julus against Salman Rushie in 1988, scrapping of ties with Israel and raising a voice against ‘communal’ elements. Lately, it had opposed the visit of Pakistan-born Islamic scholar Tahir-ul-Qadri’s visit to India.

However, not many in the community feel its activities and interest are as pious. In fact they accuse Noori and his academy of instigating violence and its president of having becoming leader of Barelvi sect in Mumbai. “The real work of Raza Academy has been to incite people from the community,” said a maulana. “They were at the forefront in the attacks on the policemen in Bhiwandi. Wherever they make a presence the issue tends to become violent.”