New Delhi: The Urdu Development Organisation (UDO) has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, requesting that Sir Syed Ahmad Khan, the renowned social reformer, educationist, and founder of Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), be honoured with the country’s highest civilian award, the Bharat Ratna, reports the Hindustan Samachar.
Dr. Syed Ahmad Khan, President of UDO, emphasised that the Government of India had already conferred the Bharat Ratna posthumously on Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya in December 2015. He pointed out that both Pandit Malaviya and Sir Syed had made remarkable contributions to nation-building and societal reform, making them equally deserving of the honour. He further stated that while Pandit Malaviya had received due recognition, the country is still awaiting the same for Sir Syed Ahmad Khan.
Dr. Khan highlighted that the Government of India has a tradition of honouring iconic figures who have made outstanding contributions to the nation’s social, educational, and cultural development. He asserted that Sir Syed Ahmad Khan’s contributions to the progress of India are indelible. He noted that while Pandit Malaviya was recognised for his educational initiatives and his significant role in the freedom movement, Sir Syed Ahmad Khan is no less deserving of the same honour.
It is noteworthy that Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya, who founded Banaras Hindu University (BHU) in 1916, was awarded the Bharat Ratna posthumously in 2015. BHU remains one of India’s most prestigious educational institutions, and Malaviya’s efforts gave Indian society a new direction in education and social awareness. Similarly, Sir Syed Ahmad Khan founded the Muhammadan Anglo-Oriental College in 1875, which later became Aligarh Muslim University (AMU). AMU is not just a centre of education but also a symbol of social reform and religious tolerance.
During an era marked by ignorance and discrimination, Sir Syed promoted modern education, science, and rational thinking, paving the way for progress across all sections of society. Dr. Khan stressed that honouring Sir Syed Ahmad Khan with the Bharat Ratna would be a moment of pride for the nation. It would not only recognise his immense contributions but also inspire future generations to value education, social reform, and tolerance.
Dr. Khan urged the central government to take a positive stance on this matter and facilitate the path to confer the Bharat Ratna on Sir Syed Ahmad Khan.
