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Karachi: Maulana Tariq Jameel’s son, Yousaf Jameel, broke his silence on Monday regarding the social media criticism his father faced after officiating the marriage of Dr. Nabiha Ali. In a video message, Yousaf Jameel explained that Maulana Tariq Jameel had recently conducted the wedding ceremony for the doctor, which led to significant public criticism.

He clarified that his father did not even know the bride personally. A friend had requested him to officiate the marriage, and Maulana Tariq Jameel did not refuse, as he has conducted thousands of weddings throughout his life and does not deny anyone who requests his services. Yousaf Jameel emphasized that his father’s life and character are well-known, and his religious services span decades. “A person who serves religion and is in the public eye must exercise high moral consideration,” he said.

He added that while criticism is justified if mistakes occur, there are specific circumstances here. If people still believe his father should be criticized, they are free to do so. Yousaf Jameel noted that due to age and health, Maulana Tariq Jameel now conducts far fewer marriages, but has not stopped entirely. Changing long-held routines is difficult, and people often feel joy having their weddings officiated by him.

Yousaf Jameel acknowledged that his father should not have sat with the bride, and Shariah does not permit it. However, he noted that Maulana is 72 years old, and not of an age of desire. The women whose marriages he officiates are typically the age of his daughters, and he acts as a respected elder for them. He criticized Dr. Nabiha for not respecting the sanctity of the occasion and their residence, adding that videos of the wedding included songs. While celebrating is acceptable, it should have been done respectfully considering the host’s stature.

Yousaf Jameel expressed regret over the negative public response, noting that Maulana faced pressure from videos and messages circulating online. He stressed that responsibility should be placed on the actual source, as his father had no way of predicting the bride’s social media activity.

In conclusion, Yousaf Jameel stated that one incident should not overshadow a lifetime of services. Dr. Nabiha treated the occasion more as social media content than a solemn event, misrepresenting Maulana Tariq Jameel, who is a kind and humble person. Had he anticipated this, he would have refused the event in his home.

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