Ruling on Praying Behind an Imam Who Does Not Perform Rafʿ al-Yadayn

Source: Fatāwā ʿUlamāʾ Ahl al-Ḥadīth, Kitāb al-Ṣalāh, Vol. 1, p. 244
Clarified for Practical Application

❖ Question​

Is it permissible to pray behind an imam who does not perform Rafʿ al-Yadayn (raising the hands) or neglects another Sunnah? Does such an action invalidate the prayer?

❖ Answer​

✔ Yes, praying behind such an imam is valid.
Even if the imam omits Rafʿ al-Yadayn or any other Sunnah act, it does not nullify the prayer.

While a Sunnah-adhering and righteous imam holds a higher virtue, the imāmate of one who omits Sunnah acts remains legally acceptable, and following him in prayer is permissible.

Reference:
Ahl Ḥadīth Suhādrah, Vol. 15, Issues 4–5