Muhammad Ali Mirza: Pakistani YouTuber and Religious Scholar
Muhammad Ali Mirza continues to be a controversial figure, navigating a path filled with debates, legal challenges, and the constant scrutiny of his outspoken views on religious matters.
Early Life and Education
Muhammad Ali Mirza, born on October 4, 1977, in Jhelum, Punjab, is a Pakistani YouTuber and religious scholar. His father, Mirza Arshad Mahmud, worked in Allied Bank. Ali Mirza pursued engineering at the University of Engineering and Technology, Taxila, and worked as a mechanical engineer for the Government of Punjab.
Career and Controversies
Ali Mirza gained fame for his online lectures on religious issues and runs a research academy based on his understanding of the Quran and Sunnat. However, his outspoken style has led to numerous controversies, with critics accusing him of using derogatory terms for Muslim saints and displaying excessive pride and ego.
Arrest and Release
In May 2020, Mirza was arrested on suspicion of spreading hate speech towards religious scholars. Notable figures like Pakistani actor Hamza Ali Abbasi and anchor Shafaat Ali condemned his arrest. Mirza was released on May 6, 2020, claiming that his lectures were presented out of context.
Assassination Attempts
Mirza survived two assassination attempts, with the most recent in August 2023 by an attacker armed with a sharp weapon. The attacker was subdued by guards, and investigations are underway. The first attempt occurred in 2017 when an assailant tried to stab Mirza during a picture-taking session at his academy in Jhelum.
Controversial Views and Debates
Mirza’s views on Mu’awiya I, the first caliph of the Umayyad Caliphate, stirred controversy among traditionalist Sunni Muslim ulama in Pakistan. His long-standing rivalry with Deobandist scholar Tariq Masood over Mu’awiya led to a face-to-face debate. Despite initial postponements, the debate took place, with conflicting claims of victory from both sides.
In November 2023, a scheduled debate with Barelvist scholar Mufti Hanif Qureshi was marred by Mirza’s refusal to allow Qureshi inside the academy, leading to Qureshi’s declared “victory.”
Nupur Sharma Case
In June 2022, Mirza criticized Taslim Rehmani for disrespecting Hindu gods in the presence of BJP spokesperson Nupur Sharma on Times Now. Mirza claimed Nupur Sharma retaliated by insulting Muhammad. While praised by some, Mirza faced backlash from Indian and Pakistani Ulemas for his comments.
Blasphemy Charges
In April 2023, blasphemy charges were filed against Ali Mirza under section 295C of the Pakistan Penal Code. Accusations include mocking Muhammad and downplaying the legal status of Ahmadis as non-Muslims. Critics argue that Mirza uses derogatory language when referring to certain religious groups.
Conclusion
Despite facing arrests, assassination attempts, and blasphemy charges, he continues to assert his views through online lectures and debates. Mirza’s outspoken style and controversial statements have ignited both support and criticism, leading to heated debates and clashes with fellow scholars.