Khalid Iqbal Malik Denies Serious Allegations and Seeks Religious Ruling

Chaudhry Tabraiz Aurah
London :In a case that has sparked considerable attention within local faith communities, social media activist, social and religious leader, and former General Secretary of Lea Bridge Road Mosque in Walthamstow, Khalid Iqbal Malik has categorically denied serious allegations leveled against him by Raja Muhammad Ilyas, the current General Secretary of the mosque.
A long-time resident of Leytonstone, East London, Mr. Malik issued a formal public statement in which he strongly refuted what he described as “false and baseless” accusations. According to Mr. Malik, Mr. Ilyas has alleged that he orchestrated a scheme involving multiple women to bring false charges of misconduct against a mosque imam.
Rejecting these claims in the strongest terms, Mr. Malik stated, “I am a man of good moral standing. I am married and, by the grace of Allah, a father. These allegations are a direct attack on my integrity and character.”
In a bold and deeply religious response, Mr. Malik announced that he is prepared to swear an oath on the Holy Qur’an in a mosque — alongside his accuser — to demonstrate his innocence. He further stated:“If this accusation is proven to be true, I will issue three Talaqs (divorces) to my wife. But if the accusers fail to prove their claim, then Raja Muhammad Ilyas and his associates should also face the same consequence their wives will be divorced with three Talaqs.”This remarkable declaration has ignited widespread debate, both within religious circles and the wider community, over its religious, ethical, and legal implications. Mr. Malik has formally turned to Islamic scholars, requesting a clear fatwa (religious ruling) on the matter. He specifically asked scholars to provide guidance based on the Qur’an and Sunnah (traditions of the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him), and posed the following key questions:1.If the allegation made by Raja Muhammad Ilyas and his associates cannot be substantiated, what is the Shariah ruling?2.In such a scenario, would the pronouncement of three divorces (Talaq) upon the wives of the accusers be considered valid under Islamic law?3.Does this case fall under the category of Qadhf — the Islamic term for false accusation of sexual misconduct — and does it warrant the associated punishment?4.What is the appropriate Islamic response to such allegations, and what actions should be taken to ensure justice in the eyes of Allah?Mr. Malik emphasized that he is seeking an authoritative and public fatwa to ensure that any actions taken are in full alignment with Islamic jurisprudence, and to demonstrate his commitment to truth and accountability.Efforts were made by this publication to contact Raja Muhammad Ilyas for his response to these serious developments. As of the time of writing, no reply has been received.This unfolding situation continues to attract attention across the UK Muslim community, as many await religious scholars’ input on this unusual and sensitive case. Observers note that the outcome may set a precedent for how public allegations and challenges involving Islamic ethics are addressed in community leadership and mosque affairs.Following Mr. Malik’s statement, this publication attempted to contact Raja Muhammad Ilyas for comment. As of the time of publication, no response has been received.