Are Syed Mohammad Jaunpuri’s followers considered Muslims despite believing he was the Mehdi?

Answer

(Fatwa: 804/763=D/1429)

Sayed Muhammad Jaunpuri, the founder of Mehdi sect, was born in 847 Hijri. He claimed to be Mehdi in 905 H and died in 910 H. His followers not only believe in him to be Mehdi but also believe that he was better than all the prophets (علیھم السلام). They do not believe in Hadhrat Musa and Hadhrat Nuhعليهما السلام) ) of having perfect faith. According to the belief of this sect, those who do not believe in him as the Promised Mehdi are kafir (infidel). Besides, they hold many other false beliefs. Hazrat Mufti Kifayatullah (رحمۃ اللہ علیہ) has written about it: “The Mehdi sect prevailing in Southern India is kafir, animals slaughtered by them is unlawful.? Now, a large part of the sect has been brought back to right path and rectified their beliefs. Therefore, those having true beliefs will not fall in this category. (Fatawa Raheemiah: Tarteeb Jadid, vol. 1, p 187)

Allah (Subhana Wa Ta’ala) knows Best

Darul Ifta,
Darul Uloom Deoband