Bagdad, February 9 (KNS): Molvi Imran Reza Ansari, President of the All Jammu and Kashmir Shia Association (AJKSA), recently participated in the "A Middle Nation" conference in Baghdad, Iraq, where he presented a research paper on "Vision of Citizenship from the Shia Perspective and the Experience of Citizenship in Kashmir."
Ansari's research paper explored the concept of Wilayah (Guardianship) and Civic Responsibility in Shia Islam, highlighting the importance of spiritual and moral authority in shaping Shia citizenship. "The Shia vision of citizenship is deeply rooted in the principles of justice, moral responsibility, and guardianship," he said. "It transcends national boundaries, offering a holistic view of belonging that emphasizes both global solidarity and local civic engagement."
The paper also delved into the experience of Shia Muslims in Kashmir, where citizenship is influenced by a combination of religious identity, historical context, and political struggle. Ansari noted, "For Shia Muslims in Kashmir, citizenship is not merely a legal status but a dynamic, moral responsibility to contribute to the common good."
Ansari's speech emphasized the importance of justice (‘Adl) as the pillar of social contract in Shia theology. "Justice is not just an abstract ideal but a practical, lived experience," he said.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel"It becomes an ethical obligation to challenge injustice and to work toward equity and the welfare of the community."
The AJKSA President also discussed the global Shia identity and its relationship with nationalism. "The Shia perspective on citizenship transcends national borders, recognizing that human dignity and rights are inherent to all individuals, regardless of legal status," he explained.
The conference, hosted by Hujjat al-Islam wal-Muslimin Sayyid Ammar al-Hakim from February 6-8, 2025, brought together many renowned Shia scholars and politicians from across the globe. Notable participants included Dr. Javad Zarif, Dr. Vali Nasr, Ayatollah Mohammad Hassan Akhtari, the head of the Supreme Council of the AhlulBayt (a.s.) World Assembly, and HE Syed Ammar Al Hakim.
Ansari, a proud Indian, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to share his perspectives on Shia citizenship. "As a Shia living in Jammu And Kashmir, India, I am fortunate to be able to practice my faith freely and without hindrance," he said. "I hope that my participation in this conference will contribute to a deeper understanding and appreciation of Shia values and perspectives."(KNS)