New Delhi, July 20 A significant dialogue on “Political Participation of Indian Muslims: Challenges and Opportunities” was held at the All India Congress Committee (AICC) Headquarters in New Delhi. The programme brought together Muslim representatives, social activists, and intellectuals from various districts of Uttar Pradesh to discuss political representation, democratic participation, and issues concerning the Muslim community.
The primary objective of the dialogue was to deliberate on the political participation and representation of Indian Muslims, as well as the responsibilities of political parties—particularly the Opposition—in responding to issues related to the treatment of Muslims by those in power.
The chief guest, Mr. Rajendra Pal Gautam, AICC In-charge for Uttar Pradesh and National Chairman of the AICC Scheduled Caste Department, listened carefully to the concerns and suggestions raised by the participants. He remarked that the gathering was not merely an event but the beginning of a sustained dialogue. He assured the participants that he would personally visit different regions, engage with people on the ground, understand their concerns, and strive to convey them to the party leadership.
In his address, Mr. Gautam said, “The struggles of the Dalit and Muslim communities share many common experiences. Both have historically faced discrimination and marginalisation. It is on the basis of this shared experience that we must unite to safeguard our constitutional rights and work together for social justice.”
Introducing the programme, Masihuzzama Ansari, Chairman of the National Federation of Youth Movement (NFYM), expressed concern over what he described as the silence of political parties on serious issues affecting Muslims, including actions against mosques, madrasas, schools and universities, incidents of mob lynching, bulldozer demolitions, and harassment based on religious identity. He stated that, in such circumstances, the country’s principal Opposition party is expected to adopt a clear and vocal stand on these issues and demonstrate strong solidarity with the affected community.
Moderating the discussion, Dr. Khalid Mohammad Khan said that Muslims across the country remain deeply concerned about the injustices they face and are seeking a political space where their security, dignity, and constitutional rights are protected without compromise. He stressed that political parties must intervene more effectively and articulate clear positions on these issues.
Dr. Shoaib Khan stated that the Congress party needs to strengthen its organisational structure at the grassroots level and provide greater opportunities for emerging and active leadership.
Atif Hasan presented demographic and political data relating to districts in Uttar Pradesh where the Muslim population and political influence are significant. He suggested that the Congress party should take these realities into account while formulating its political strategy and expanding its organisational presence.
Anees Vishal Ansari said that Muslims should receive adequate representation within the Congress organisation and in political positions in proportion to their population.
Shamsul Hasan Umra, who attended from Barabanki, observed that if the Congress consistently stands with the Muslim community through a strong organisational presence during difficult times, it would further strengthen public trust in the party and enhance the credibility of its leadership.
The programme was chaired by Mufti Javed Sahib from Bijnor.
During the open discussion, Akhtar Malik, Irfan Saifi, Muzaffar Gurjar, Anees Akhtar, Modi Saleem Saifi, Mufti Tanveer, Shahzad (educationist), Shakeel Ahmad, Maulana Kaleem Uzzama, Advocate Zuhaib, Maulana Muqarram, Zahid Ansari, Kunwar Mazhar Khan, Shakir Ali, Qari Masroor, Zarar Umar, Asif Chaudhary, and several other representatives also shared their views. They expressed concern over the Congress leadership’s approach toward issues affecting Muslims and hoped that by strengthening its organisation, maintaining an active presence among the people, and taking a clear stand on constitutional values and social justice, the party could emerge as an effective political force. A majority of the participating intellectuals also advised the Congress to reconsider its alliance strategy and discontinue its association with its principal coalition partner.
The programme was jointly organised by Dr. Khalid Mohammad Khan, Dr. Shoaib Khan, and Atif Hasan.
The dialogue concluded with a commitment to continue organising similar interactions in different regions so that the genuine concerns and aspirations of the community can become an integral part of the democratic discourse.
Among those present were Gulfam, Shahzad, Mufti Saad, Irshad Ali, Seth Ji Mustafa, Sajid Ansari, Ali Jan Saifi, Noor Mohammad, Rashid, Nasir Hussain, Chaudhary Nadeem, Maulana Amjad Qasmi, Qari Aman, Chaudhary Khalid, Tasawwar, Mujib, Wahid, Syed Zameen, Shavez Chaudhary, Advocate Riyasat, and several other participants.
