@the author
Great piece of work. Two other phrases/words must also be noted: “Talibanesque” and “self-appointed guardian of Indian Muslims.” Taliban has been influenced by Deoband and hence calling the fatwa “Talibanesque” is like saying that the father is like the child. It only shows the idiocy and ignorance of the newspaper.

I also do not know where and when the Deoband appointed itself as the “guardian of Indian Muslims.” To the best of my knowledge, Deoband believes that the Islamic ummah (community) is one and not diluted by nationality of the believers. The sentence is character assassination of Deoband.

If I have a doubt in Physics, I will approach Physics professors. Than does not mean that the Physics professor is a self-appointed high priest of Physics. Such hate-filled writing should be prosecuted.

Not “They should ‘instead’ ask”. Perhaps “They should ‘also’ ask”. Given the position of authority the religious scholars wield and the – admittedly regrettable – influence they seem to have on their flocks, it seems quite reasonable – even admirable – to hold them accountable for any idiotic opinions they may proclaim. In a more educated society their pronouncements would matter less.