image

By Our Correspondent

New Delhi | Friday | 25 October 2024

A gathering of prominent social and educational figures convened today at the Madani Hall of the Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind office here at the invitation of JUH national president Maulana Mahmood Madani resolved to launch a platform to combat communalism and hate.

The meeting focused on the growing societal divisions and unrest in the country. Among the notable attendees was Tushar Arun Gandhi, the great-grandson of Mahatma Gandhi, who announced the formation of a united platform to combat sectarianism. A committee will be established soon following further consultations.

In his inaugural remarks, Maulana Mahmood Madani expressed gratitude to all participants for their commitment to addressing these critical issues. Tushar Arun Gandhi, the chief guest, expressed deep concern regarding the current situation faced by Muslims in India. He highlighted how right-wing groups have framed the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), the National Register of Citizens (NRC), and the Waqf issue as solely Muslim problems, thereby distracting public attention from other policies that adversely affect various minority communities. This deliberate strategy has not only marginalized other minority concerns but has also exacerbated prejudice against Muslims.

Gandhi issued a stark warning about the future, stating, “If the systematic exclusion of Muslims continues, it could eventually lead to serious conflict.” He emphasized that anti-Muslim and anti-minority policies are not isolated incidents but rather part of a broader agenda aimed at pushing minorities to the margins of society. There is an urgent need for legal and social actions to counter these discriminatory practices.

 

Article at a Glance

A significant gathering of social and educational leaders at the Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind office, led by Maulana Mahmood Madani, has resolved to create a united platform to combat communalism and hate in India. Notably, Tushar Arun Gandhi, great-grandson of Mahatma Gandhi, emphasized the urgent need for collective action against rising sectarianism, warning that the systematic exclusion of Muslims could lead to serious conflict.

Participants highlighted the detrimental impact of misinformation and the importance of dialogue to bridge social divides. They called for legal and social measures to counter discrimination against minorities, advocating for cooperation among various communities, including Dalits and Adivasis.

A memorandum condemning blasphemous remarks against Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was also approved, urging the President of India to promote interfaith dialogue and respect for all religions. The meeting underscored the need for unity and proactive efforts to foster harmony in society.

 

He concluded his address with a strong call for collective action, urging the establishment of dedicated groups that can legally and politically challenge rising intolerance towards minorities. “If we do not act now, we may face deeper divisions and unrest in the future,” he asserted.

Maulana Mahmood Madani added, “Today, our fellow countrymen are being incited against us, and there are efforts to politically and socially erase us. The responsible individuals within the majority community must play a pivotal role in this crucial time.”

He underscored the dangers of misinformation, stating, “Misinformation will also harm those who are using it. Today, our right to walk freely is being stripped away.” He recalled the incident of an elderly man being attacked and beaten on a train heading to Mumbai, where no one intervened.

He urged the community to reflect on what can be done to support Muslims and prevent further despair. “If we also adopt an aggressive tone and approach, it will not benefit the nation. Instead, we must extinguish the flames of hatred. You are the majority, and the country has great expectations from you,” he urged.

A group of people sitting at tables

Description automatically generated