Hakeemul Ummah Hazrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thaanwi Sahib رحمه الله has advised that if one’s Sheikh is no longer living, then too one should not decide merely on the basis of one’s own opinion. One should consult with even one’s juniors. Juniors should follow the seniors and seniors should consult with juniors. All people of this Ummah, seniors and juniors, are beneficial. This is based on the Qur’ānic Aayah: “And consult with them in affairs.” If seniors consult even with their juniors, ان شاءالله, errors will be obviated. To a greater degree will juniors be successful if they consult with their seniors. The command of the Aayah is for Sayyiduna Rasoolullah صلى الله عليه وسلم to consult with the Sahaabah رضوان الله عليهم أجمعين.
(SOURCE: MALFOOZAAT OF HAZRAT MOULANA ASHRAF ALI THAANWI SAHIB رحمه الله, PART 6)