Nizamuddin Markaz chief not on the run, has asked followers to cooperate with govt: Lawyer

The lawyer representing Maulana Saad Kandhalvi, the controversial head of Markaz Tablighi Jamaat whose headquarters in Delhi is the veritable epicentre of coronavirus infection in the national capital, said on Thursday that Kandhalvi is not running away from law and that he is cooperating with the Crime Branch of Delhi Police.

"We have received notice from the Investigating Officer of the Crime Branch and we are preparing a reply. The Maulana is not running away from law," said advocate Musharraf Ali Khan.

He said the Jamaat followers should present themselves before the authorities for a check-up and should adhere to the directive of the authorities. "There is no need to argue and misbehave with anybody," said Khan.

He said the media is painting a wrong picture that "we did not come out to explain the truth".

The lawyer read out a message on behalf of the Maulana advising members of Tablighi Jamaat across the country to present themselves before medical authorities for screening.

Maulana Saad released an audio on Wednesday in which he said: "I am in self-quarantine in Delhi as advised by doctors and I appeal to all Jamaat members, wherever they are in the country, to follow the directives of law enforcement agencies."

He said it is advised to remain indoors and adhere to the directives of the government and not assemble anywhere.

Fuzail Ahmed Ayyubi, another lawyer of the Maulana, told IANS that Maulana Saad has asked every person of Tablighi Jamat to approach the authorities of their respective districts and extend cooperation to them. "In particular they should present themselves for medical examination for their safety as well for the safety of others."

He said full cooperation is being extended to the authorities.