New Delhi: In a crucial meeting held here Monday, prominent social, educational, and religious leaders gathered to discuss the current socio-political climate, challenges ahead, and a strategic way forward. Organised by Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind, the meeting focused on addressing growing communalism and hatred in the country. A key decision made was to submit a memorandum to the President of India, urging timely intervention to safeguard the nation’s social fabric.
Chief guest, Tushar Arun Gandhi, expressed deep concerns about the hardships faced by Muslims in India. He criticised right-wing groups for framing issues like CAA, NRC, and Waqf dispute as concerns solely of Muslims, thereby diverting attention from broader policies that negatively affect other minorities. Gandhi highlighted how this tactic has amplified prejudice against Muslims while sidelining other marginalised groups.
Maulana Mahmood Madani, President of JUH, warned of the growing societal divisions.
“Citizens are being incited against us, and efforts are underway to marginalise our community politically and socially,” he said.
He emphasised the need for responsible members of the majority community to take action during these trying times. Madani also addressed the dangers of misinformation, noting that it will eventually harm those spreading it. He recalled a tragic incident where an elderly Muslim man was attacked on a train to Mumbai, while onlookers did nothing to stop it.
Prominent economist Professor Arun Kumar expressed concern over the lack of meaningful efforts to promote societal unity. He pointed out that policies favouring select groups are exacerbating divisions, often manipulating the majority for larger political goals. Kumar linked these issues to economic inequality, unemployment, and faulty economic policies, which have heightened social tensions.
Dr. Javed Alam Khan, an educationist, called for a united effort to address the challenges facing marginalised communities, including Dalits, Adivasis, Tribals, and Muslims. He stressed the importance of establishing a platform for these groups to collaborate and share their experiences in pursuit of practical solutions.
Dr. Zafar Mahmood, Chairman of Zakat Foundation of India, highlighted the importance of raising awareness through social media and other platforms. He also proposed the creation of an interfaith glossary to foster understanding among different religions.
Several other leaders shared their views, including Maulana Hakimuddin Qasmi (General Secretary of JUH), Daya Singh, Kailash Meena, and Professor Mujibur Rahman.
During the meeting, a memorandum denouncing blasphemous remarks made against the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ was unanimously approved, with all participants signing it. The memorandum urges the President of India to take immediate and decisive action, calling upon the government to respond firmly to such offensive statements.
