New Delhi: Eminent scholars, intellectuals, political leaders, journalists and social activists from India and abroad gathered at the Speaker Hall of the Constitution Club in New Delhi on Saturday to commemorate the life and legacy of Dr. Mohammad Manzoor Alam, former Patron-in-Chief of the Institute of Objective Studies, IOS, and former General Secretary of the All India Milli Council. Speakers described his intellectual vision, leadership and commitment to social harmony as a lasting contribution that would be remembered in golden words.
The memorial programme focused on Dr. Alam’s contributions to education, research, Islamic thought, social justice and interfaith dialogue. Participants recalled his efforts to unite people of diverse opinions and backgrounds while working for the welfare of the Muslim community and the nation.
Professor Dawud A. Yahya Al-Hidabi of the International Islamic University Malaysia said Dr. Manzoor Alam left behind a remarkable legacy as an educational leader and thinker with a broad vision. He noted that Dr. Alam consistently focused on the backwardness of Muslims while promoting interfaith dialogue rooted in Islamic principles. According to him, Dr. Alam emphasized social cohesion among Muslims and worked to connect Islamic studies with social sciences, making contributions toward social justice.
Professor Dr. Jasser Auda, President of Maqasid Institute Global, USA, said he had visited India several times and observed that Dr. Alam’s intellectual and national vision extended far beyond India. He highlighted Dr. Alam’s efforts in the study of waqf and Islamic economics, saying his ideas influenced an entire new generation. He also revealed that while staying in Madinah, Dr. Alam contributed to an English translation of the Holy Quran aimed at English-speaking students. “He has left behind a valuable intellectual heritage that will continue to guide future generations,” he said.
Ameer of Jamaat-e-Islami Hind, Syed Sadatullah Husaini, said Dr. Manzoor Alam’s scholarly and research-oriented work played a crucial role in strengthening constructive social action. He stressed that meaningful work requires sound research and knowledge. Husaini described Dr. Alam as an innovator who guided people across ideological lines and effectively utilized global networks and resources for community welfare.
Renowned Islamic scholar Maulana Khalilur Rahman Sajjad Nomani remarked that Dr. Alam always respected differences of opinion and never hesitated in extending or accepting cooperation. Former External Affairs Minister Salman Khurshid said Dr. Alam was deeply concerned about safeguarding India’s future and often brought intellectuals together to deliberate on challenges facing society, particularly Muslims.
Professor Emeritus of Jamia Millia Islamia Akhtarul Wasey said Dr. Alam established IOS as a major think tank through tireless efforts during a time of divisions within the Muslim community. Senior Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar praised Dr. Alam’s impartial and balanced approach in public life, while journalist John Dayal highlighted his consistent efforts to promote communal harmony and cooperation among communities.
Several other scholars, journalists and religious leaders also addressed the programme and expressed solidarity with Dr. Alam’s family and associates. The event concluded with prayers led by Maulana Aneesur Rahman Qasmi.
By Naushad Khan
