A PETITION calling for a disqualified Imam to be re-instated has smashed its target.

Asim Hussain was removed from his position and told to delete his social media accounts after Muslim scholars deemed he had committed “gross misconduct" over serious violations of morality” and “abuses of authority”.

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Although the scholars have not revealed exact details of the allegations, a petition set up online in a bid to reverse the decision has now gathered more than 5,500 signatures.

A description of the petition says the former Imam has "repented" and should be allowed to keep his position.

It reads: "This is why this petition is made to show Imam Asim Hussain that he is still worthy of being an Imam after he has sincerely apologised, we hate the sin and not the sinner."