New Delhi: The Nai Dunia National Forum recently organised a seminar titled “The Future of Muslims in Today’s India” at the Constitution Club here Thursday. The event aimed to foster dialogue among representatives of various political parties. Most speakers emphasised that meaningful dialogue requires genuine efforts toward peace and reconciliation, not just repeated verbal assurances.
Rakesh Sinha of the RSS called for dialogue across ideological and political lines. He urged individuals from all sections of society to come together and engage in meaningful conversations.
Former Union Minister Salman Khurshid lauded the initiative but stressed that dialogue can only advance with genuine assurances of peace. He argued that verbal commitments alone are insufficient and questioned how dialogue could proceed amid ongoing incidents of lynching and the demonization of Muslims. He asked Sinha whether there was a sincere effort to embrace all communities on the path of peace and progress.
Manoj Jha, MP, asked whether one could imagine an India without Muslims. He asserted that the country’s growth story is incomplete without the contributions of Muslims. He remarked that hatred has become so entrenched that even in the absence of Muslims, people would seek out others to vilify, including within their own families. Jha emphasised that the future of India is inseparable from its religious and cultural diversity, including Muslims, Sikhs, and Christians.
Iqra Hasan, MP from Kairana, highlighted the need to address both external and internal challenges facing the Muslim community. She underscored the importance of identifying strengths and weaknesses while focusing on education to counter negative perceptions and emerging challenges.
Hilal Ahmed of CSDS referred to surveys conducted by CSDS and the Pew Research Center over the past decade. He noted that 90% of respondents still believe India belongs to all its citizens, not just Hindus. He emphasised that mutual respect for religions is vital for harmonious coexistence.
Mujibur Rehman, author of Shikwa-e-Hind: The Political Future of Indian Muslims, stressed the importance of socio-economic and political equality for Muslims.
Shahid Siddiqui, President of the Forum, elaborated on the objectives of the initiative. He announced plans to organise a series of dialogues on key issues such as education, media, and other pressing topics.
