Jamia Naeemia Issues Fatwa Against Illegal Immigration Methods Following Migrant Tragedy
Jamia Naeemia has issued a fatwa declaring the use of illegal immigration methods, commonly referred to as “dunki,” as both unlawful and contrary to Islamic teachings, according to Express News.
The fatwa was issued after a tragic incident in which up to 50 migrants, including 44 Pakistanis, are feared to have died while attempting to reach Spain from West Africa.
The incident occurred on January 2, when a boat carrying 86 migrants, including 66 Pakistanis, departed from Mauritania. The vessel encountered severe difficulties during its 13-day journey, with no rescue efforts made. Moroccan authorities were able to rescue 36 survivors on Wednesday.
Helena Maleno, the CEO of migrant rights organization Walking Borders, confirmed the loss of 44 Pakistani lives, describing the journey as one filled with immense suffering.
In their fatwa, signed by Dr. Mufti Raghib Hussain Naeemi and Mufti Imran Hanafi, Jamia Naeemia declared that attempting to leave the country illegally is forbidden both under the law and Islamic principles.
The scholars emphasized that such actions violate the Islamic prohibition on self-harm, noting that suicide or any act that leads to it is strictly prohibited in Islam. The fatwa further stated, “Endangering oneself or engaging in actions that could lead to harm or death is never acceptable.”
The fatwa also advised those wishing to travel abroad to use legal and safe methods, condemning the role of agents who exploit people seeking to migrate illegally. The scholars called on the government to strengthen laws against such agents and to protect citizens from dangerous, exploitative immigration practices.
