Jamaat-e-Islami Hind organizes a session on “Responsibilities of Muslims in a Pluralistic Society”
New Delhi: In an effort to address the challenges faced by Muslims in India’s diverse society and to reflect on the protection of democratic rights, Jamaat-e-Islami Hind organized a special session at its headquarters in New Delhi. The session, titled “Responsibilities of Muslims in a Pluralistic Society,” was addressed by renowned scholar and Dean of the Cambridge Islamic College, Dr. Mohammad Akram Nadwi. The event was presided over by Maulana Waliullah Saeedi, Vice President of Jamaat-e-Islami Hind.
The program commenced with a recitation of the Quran by Dr. Faisal, followed by an introduction of Dr. Nadwi presented by Jamaat’s Secretary, Maulana Raziul Islam Nadwi.
In his keynote address, Dr. Akram Nadwi emphasized that the question of whether Muslims are in the majority or minority is not of major importance. Quoting the Quran, he reminded the audience that throughout history, Muslims have experienced both situations. “What matters most,” he said, “is how Muslims fulfill their divine duties amidst changing circumstances.” He urged Muslims to exhibit patience, maintain friendly and loving relations with the majority community, and respond to hatred with love. However, he stressed the need to actively strive against injustice and oppression.
Dr. Nadwi advised Muslims to show genuine compassion and sincerity towards the majority community, avoiding debates, confrontations, or conflicts. “Our real concern,” he said, “should not be numbers but whether we are carrying out our entrusted responsibilities as Muslims.”
Highlighting the stages of the Prophet Muhammad’s ﷺ life — early Meccan period, migration to Medina, and establishment of the Islamic state — Dr. Nadwi stated that guidance for every era can be found within the Seerah. He further explained that reason and human nature are among God’s greatest gifts, and when they align, faith remains strong with the help of divine support.
Emphasizing the need for action over mere words, Dr. Nadwi warned that verbal preaching alone would not prevent apostasy. He urged the community to adopt true education and practical Islam, and to implement the Quran’s guidance in their daily lives.
In his presidential address, Maulana Waliullah Saeedi stressed the urgent need for Muslims to adopt a dynamic, ijtihadi (independent reasoning) approach to tackle the challenges of living in a pluralistic society. He called upon Muslims to focus on self-improvement, nurturing their families, and inviting fellow citizens to Islam through exemplary service and sincere outreach.
Addressing the youth specifically, Maulana Saeedi encouraged them to awaken the Muslim community and invite others to Islam through their noble character and conduct. “These difficult times will not last forever,” he assured, “and Allah will certainly change the conditions.”
The session concluded with an interactive question-and-answer segment, during which Dr. Nadwi answered various questions from participants in detail.
Prominent personalities who attended included Maulana Malik Moatasim Khan, Vice President of Jamaat-e-Islami Hind, Maulana Muhammad Ahmad, Secretary of Jamaat-e-Islami Hind, Dr. Syed Qasim Rasool Ilyas, spokesperson of the All India Muslim Personal Law Board, along with numerous scholars, intellectuals, and students.
