Barelvi, Deobandi muslims meet to 'resolve differences' ahead of UP elections

The Deobandi and Barelvi sects of Sunni Muslims held a meeting in Deoband, Uttar Pradesh, recently, in a bid to mend their relationship by resolving prevailing differences.

Tauqeer Raza Khan, Barelvi cleric, visited Darul Uloom, Deoband, and met the ulema, according to a report in the Times of India.

The meet has given rise to speculations that the two sects are moving toward resolving their issues and vote as one to reach their goal of a proper Muslim representation in legislatures.

"The meeting was to resolve differences between the two sects and move together to achieve common goals," TOI quoted Maulana Raza, a Barelvi.

"The BJP is yet to win the confidence of Muslims while the Congress is hardly in the game. SP and BSP too have used Muslims as vote-banks. So it's time for the community to realise its worth," he added.

Barelvis and Deobandis have ideological differences as Deobandis follow puritanical Islam, while Barelvis have a Sufi leaning. Together, they comprise about 80% of UP's Sunni population. The meet, therefore, is rather significant, keeping in mind the upcoming Assembly polls which will be held in the state early next year.