The Imams Omitting the Saying “Stand in Straight Rows and Be Even” Before the Prayer

Question:
Honorable Shaykh, he says: Some imams do not say “Stand in straight rows and be even” to the congregation after the iqamah (the second call to prayer). When this is pointed out to them, they say that this was only in the early days of Islam, and that when the Companions (may Allah be pleased with them) understood it from the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him), they neglected it or left it off. What is your opinion?

Answer:
There is no evidence for this statement. Rather, it is prescribed (mashru') that the imam checks the rows and says, “Stand in straight rows, be even, align your rows, and close the gaps.”