Early Leadership

Shaikh-ul-Hadith Maulana Muhammad Abdullah of Gujranwala served as the first Ameer, while Shaikh-ul-Qur’an Maulana Muhammad Hussain Sheikhupuri served as the first Nazim-e-Aala. He later resigned due to personal commitments.

After his resignation, Allama Ehsan Elahi Zaheer (Shaheed) assumed the position of second Nazim-e-Aala and continued to serve in this role until his martyrdom.

Revival in 2005

In 2005, the organization was revived by Allama Ibtisam Elahi Zaheer, who held a major gathering at Alhamra Hall, Lahore, to re-establish his father’s mission and call scholars back to unity.

Shaikh-ul-Hadith Mufti Ubaidullah Afif (رحمہ اللہ) became the third Ameer, while Allama Hafiz Ibtisam Elahi Zaheer was appointed Nazim-e-Aala.

Despite challenges, the leadership remained committed and continued its efforts with patience and determination.

Alliance and Merger

In 2018, the organization entered into an alliance with Markazi Jamiat Ahle Hadith. However, repeated violations of the agreement in 2023 resulted in its breakdown.

During this period, Allama Hafiz Hisham Elahi Zaheer led Tehreek-e-Difa-e-Islam Pakistan and worked actively across Punjab, gaining recognition within various Ahle Hadith circles. Subsequently, Markazi Jamiat Ahle Hadith Aalmiya joined forces with him in pursuit of unity and reform.

Official Revival in 2023

On 30 May 2023, the organization was officially revived through the merger of Tehreek-e-Difa-e-Islam Pakistan and Markazi Jamiat Ahle Hadith Aalmiya. By unanimous decision, Allama Hisham Elahi Zaheer (حفظہ اللہ) was elected as the fourth Ameer.

He expressed gratitude to Allah Almighty and reaffirmed the mission of serving the Ahle Hadith creed across Pakistan. He also acknowledged the support of senior scholars, especially Maulana Tariq Mahmood Yazdani and Maulana Zakir-ur-Rehman Siddiqi.

Present and Future

Today, the organization maintains a strong nationwide presence. It continues to follow the ideology of Allama Ehsan Elahi Zaheer (Shaheed) and works to uphold Shariah-e-Muhammadi (ﷺ).

The organization invites all supporters to join this mission and contribute to strengthening the Ahle Hadith movement and serving the cause of Islam.