Father Defends Son’s ‘Allahu Akbar’ Chants After Pahalgam Terror Attack

Family Says ‘Allahu Akbar’ Is a Common Expression

The father of the zip line operator who was detained for chanting ‘Allahu Akbar’ during the tragic Pahalgam attack is speaking out, defending his son’s actions. He says that the phrase, which translates to ‘God is Great’ in Arabic, is a common expression used by Muslims in everyday life, not just during religious ceremonies.

The incident occurred on April 22nd when a tourist, Rishi Bhatt, captured a video of the attack. The video shows Muzammil, the zip line operator, uttering ‘Allahu Akbar’ three times after hearing gunshots. This has led to Muzammil’s questioning by investigators.

Muzammil’s father told PTI, ‘We are Muslims, and we say Allahu Akbar even when a storm comes. We say Allahu Akbar even when we start any work. What is wrong with it?’

Controversy Surrounding the Chants

The video sparked controversy, with some suggesting that Muzammil’s chants were in support of the attackers. However, in the video, it appears that Muzammil is reacting to the sounds of gunfire, not inciting violence. This has led to criticism of Muzammil’s detention by many, including PDP president Mehbooba Mufti.

She stated, ‘Some (Hindus) say Jai Shri Ram, and Muslims say Allahu Akbar when facing difficulty. We say Allahu Akbar even when we have to lift something heavy… Some elements want to further the agenda of terrorists to divide the society along communal lines.’

Several religious leaders have also condemned the attempt to link Muzammil’s chants to the attack, emphasizing that ‘Allahu Akbar’ is a common expression of faith and not a symbol of terrorism.

Wider Investigation

Meanwhile, investigators are continuing their efforts to apprehend those responsible for the Pahalgam attack. Hundreds of people, including locals who work in the area, have been questioned in an attempt to track down the terrorists.