Who is to blame for the drop in the number of applications received for Haj 2025 and the subsequent cancellations by the selected pilgrims? It is none but the media, specifically the irresponsible sections of it.

This is what the Chairman of the Telangana State Haj Committee, Syed Ghulam Afzal Biabani Khusro Pasha, believes. He has squarely blamed the media – particularly electronic and social media – for the decline in the number of Haj applications this year and the high number of cancellations by selected pilgrims. Addressing a press conference here on Sunday, Pasha expressed deep concern over the role of the media in spreading fear and misinformation, which, he said, has discouraged people from undertaking the sacred pilgrimage.

Without mincing words, Pasha stated that irresponsible and exaggerated media coverage of last year’s Haj has severely dented public confidence this year. The panic created by the media through unverified reports has led many to fear for their safety. “As a result, people are backing out, even after paying their installments.”

He cited specific instances of misleading reporting. One such case involved the tragic death of two individuals who were stuck in a lift in Bihar. Although the deceased were not from Telangana, several media outlets incorrectly reported that two pilgrims from Telangana had died. This, according to Pasha, caused unnecessary panic among families in the state who had relatives preparing for or already on the pilgrimage.

In another disturbing example, Pasha referred to an incident in Afghanistan where a young boy was killed. Some media channels irresponsibly reported the victim as the son of a Telangana pilgrim, despite no such connection. “Such fake news stories, without proper verification, have created fear and anxiety among the public,” Pasha said. “People begin to think their lives and their families’ lives are at risk if they go for Haj.”

He also addressed the issue of transportation delays during last year’s pilgrimage. During the Haj period, traffic congestion between Makkah and Mina delayed pilgrim movement, a situation that was widely reported as a failure of the Telangana State Haj Committee. Pasha clarified that the delays were due to unavoidable traffic jams and had nothing to do with mismanagement by the committee. Nevertheless, the sensationalized media coverage painted a misleading picture of chaos and incompetence, further discouraging prospective pilgrims.

According to Pasha, the impact of these reports has been severe. For Haj 2025, the Committee received only 9,061 applications, a drop of more than 2,000 compared to the previous year. Alarmingly, 2,400 of those who were selected have now cancelled their plans, despite many of them already having paid the first and second installments. “When I asked them why they are pulling out at this stage, they told me they are afraid of extreme heat, overcrowding, and poor arrangements – all fears fueled by media coverage,” Pasha said.

The Chairman criticized the media for neglecting their responsibility to report facts. “Instead of motivating and supporting the pilgrims, the media has created an atmosphere of fear,” he said. “This is not only disheartening but also irresponsible. You should report the truth, not fabricate or sensationalize incidents.”

He was, however, clear in stating that the media has every right to question the functioning of the Haj Committee and highlight any legitimate concern. Constructive criticism is necessary and welcome, he noted. “But there is a fine line between holding an organization accountable and spreading falsehoods. Unfortunately, that line is being crossed too often”, he regretted.

Sending out a veiled warning to those who engage in such reporting, Pasha said, “You will have to answer for your actions in the Hereafter. Creating panic without verifying facts is not just bad journalism – it is a disservice to the community,” he remarked.

Acknowledging the power of the media, Pasha urged it to exercise caution and responsibility when reporting on matters of faith and public welfare. He appealed to journalists to present accurate, verified information that helps rather than harms. “The Haj is a once-in-a-lifetime spiritual journey for many. Let us not rob people of that experience through fear-mongering and false narratives,” he said.

Pasha reaffirmed the Telangana State Haj Committee’s commitment to ensuring safe and efficient arrangements for all pilgrims and said every effort is being made to restore public trust and confidence.

J.S.Ifthekhar,

Hyderabad based journalist.

Article published in Siasat.com portal.

Dated May 12,2025

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 Pahalgam is not just a headline. It is a scar — a reminder of what happens when ignorance and extremism take the wheel and it’s time for scholars, leaders and everyday Muslims to reclaim the narrative, to echo the true message of Islam: peace, compassion, justice

The bloodshed in Pahalgam, Kashmir, has once again left a dark stain not only on the serenity of the region but on the conscience of humanity. The air, once filled with the calm of natural beauty and the joy of wandering tourists, was shattered by bullets and blood. What started with a gunman demanding to know a man’s religion ended in a massacre. Shots rang out, bodies dropped — innocent lives, mostly tourists, were cut short in a frenzy of hatred masked as faith.

This was not an act of religion. This was not Islam.

The men who carried out this cowardly attack claim to defend their faith. In reality, they betrayed it. The Qur’an speaks of justice, of mercy, of the sacred value of life: “Whoever kills a soul… it is as if he had slain mankind entirely.” These words, divine and clear, stand in stark contrast to the bloodlust of those who twist scripture for political vengeance and extremist fantasy.

Terrorism is not Jihad

Terrorism is not jihad. Let’s be unequivocal: Jihad, in its truest and deepest meaning, is a struggle for righteousness, for justice, for self-betterment — not the slaughter of unarmed civilians. These terrorists hijack Islam to justify their violence, but all they accomplish is the desecration of its image and the furthering of Islamophobia worldwide. They do not uplift Islam — they bury it under the bodies of the innocent.

Pahalgam is not just a headline. It is a scar — a reminder of what happens when ignorance and extremism take the wheel. It is a call to all people, especially within the Muslim community, to speak louder than ever against those who tarnish their faith. This is a time for scholars, leaders and everyday Muslims to reclaim the narrative, to echo the true message of Islam: peace, compassion, justice.

The Qur’an speaks of justice, of mercy, of the sacred value of life: “Whoever kills a soul… it is as if he had slain mankind entirely.” These words, divine and clear, stand in stark contrast to the bloodlust of those who twist scripture for political vengeance and extremist fantasy

The world mourns with Kashmir. The families of the slain mourn with the world. And we must all demand more —not just security, but sanity. Not just justice, but truth. If we stay silent, the terrorists win — not only by taking lives but by distorting the truth. Let us not let that happen. Not in Pahalgam. Not anywhere.

Terrorism has no Religion

According to reports, the perpetrators singled out civilians, asked their names, and opened fire — an act that chillingly mirrors other hate-fueled killings under the false guise of religious piety. This tragedy not only tears apart the social fabric of a peaceful region but also stands in absolute contradiction to the core teachings of Islam.

Islam, far from being a religion of compulsion or coercion, is built upon the foundation of free will, mercy and justice. The Quranic message is clear: “There is no compulsion in religion. The right course has become clear from the wrong” (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:256).

The idea that someone can kill in the name of Islam for not adhering to its tenets is both theologically incorrect and morally reprehensible.

An instructive incident from the Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) life addresses the sinfulness of judging another’s faith or using violence against someone on the assumption of disbelief.

During one of the battles, a Companion of the Prophet killed a man who, at the last moment, uttered the Shahada — the Islamic testimony of faith: La ilaha illallah (There is no god but Allah). The Companion believed the man only said it out of fear of death and not from genuine belief. When the Prophet (PBUH) heard this, he was visibly angered and asked:

“Did you tear open his heart to see whether he had faith or not?” (Sahih Muslim)

This powerful question was a rebuke. The Prophet (PBUH) repeatedly condemned the act and emphasised that no one has the right to judge the intentions behind a person’s faith, especially in moments of vulnerability. His words echo today as a direct condemnation of those who claim to judge others’ beliefs and take lives in the process.

Islam’s teachings are explicitly clear about the role of the Prophet and his followers when it comes to spreading the faith. The Qur’an says:

“The Messenger’s duty is only to convey [the message], and Allah knows what you reveal and what you conceal.” (Surah Al-Ma’idah 5:99).

Another verse states: “So remind, [O Muhammad]; you are only a reminder. You are not over them a controller.” (Surah Al-Ghashiyah 88:21–22).

These verses establish a foundational principle: Islam is a religion of da’wah (invitation), not domination. The Prophet himself never forced belief upon anyone. He preached with wisdom, patience, and compassion. The Quran does not endorse violence as a method of propagation. The role of a Muslim is to invite with beautiful preaching — not to coerce or judge.

One of the most repeated values in the Qur’an is the sanctity of life: “Whoever kills a soul unless for a soul or for corruption [done] in the land — it is as if he had slain mankind entirely.” (Surah Al-Ma’idah 5:32)

This verse equates the unjust killing of one person to killing all of humanity. The Quran does not differentiate between the life of a Muslim and a non-Muslim in its ethical view of justice. Every human soul is sacred.

Modern Terrorism

The terrorists who carried out the attack in Pahalgam and others like them claim to act in the name of Islam, but their actions are a betrayal of its very foundation. Their ideology is rooted not in the Quran or the Prophet’s Sunnah, but in political fanaticism and ignorance.

Their act of asking names and killing based on identity is reminiscent of the practices of extremist cults, not followers of the final Messenger of Allah, Rahmatan lil ’Aalameen (a mercy to all the worlds).

As fellow humans, Muslims stand in solidarity with the victims of the Pahalgam attack and denounce this barbarism without qualification. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) did not command judgment or violence — he taught mercy, patience, and leaving judgment to God alone.

Those who misuse his name and the name of Islam have torn hearts, but have failed to understand his message. Let the world hear it loud and clear: Islam condemns all forms of terrorism, and faith cannot be spread with the barrel of a gun.

J.S.Ifthekhar,

Hyderabad based journalist.

Article published in Telangana Today

Dated April 25,2025

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 Statistics show that the community holds a pivotal position that could sway the outcome in favour of either the BRS or the Congress

The Muslim factor continues to bedevil parties across the political spectrum in Telangana. Which way will Muslims vote in the upcoming elections is the million dollar question.

With the community being in the ‘king maker’ position in at least 30 to 40 constituencies in the State, all eyes are on the minority vote. Both the principal contestants, BRS and Congress, are confident that Muslims will plump for their party. Statistics show that the community holds a pivotal position that could sway the outcome in favour of either the BRS or the Congress.

The Congress party exudes confidence drawing strength from the support it received from the Muslim community in neighbouring Karnataka. This historical backing forms the backbone of their optimism as they vie for the allegiance of Muslim voters in Telangana. On the other hand, the BRS party pins its hopes on the MIM (All India Majlis-e-Ittehad-ul-Muslimeen) to tip the scales in its favor. Both principal contestants believe they have the winning formula to secure the Muslim vote.

Political chess game

The intricacies of this political chess game are underscored by plausible arguments on both sides. The Congress emphasises its track record in safeguarding minority interests and fostering a sense of inclusivity. Meanwhile, the BRS party underscores the strategic alliance with MIM, a party with a significant influence among Muslim voters. As the election countdown ticks away, the political landscape is alive with fervent efforts from both sides to court the Muslim community.

The percentage of minority votes in Telangana stands at 14. Of this Muslims alone account for 12.7 percent and Christians 1.3 percent.  In the seven constituencies held by Majlis in Hyderabad, the Muslim voter percentage is 50 percent. The Muslim electorate is also in good numbers in other city segments like Maheswaram, Rajendernagar, Jubilee Hills, Khairatabad, Amberpet, Musheerabad, Secunderabad and Sanathnagar. Elsewhere in the State in 29 Assembly constituencies there is a substantial presence of Muslims. They command 15 percent and above votes in constituencies such as Nizamabad Urban, Zaheerabad, Bodhan, Mahboobnagar, Sangareddy, Adilabad, Warangal East, Karimnagar, Banswada, Tandur, Vikarabad, Nirmal and Mudhole. In all these places the Majlis is actively campaigning in favour of BRS.

UMF is with TRS while TMS supports Congress

Different community specific organizations are also working to ensure that this inherent power to influence the electoral outcome is used judiciously. The United Muslim Forum, an umbrella body of religious personalities belonging to different schools, has extended support to the BRS. The Tahreek Muslim Shabban has, however, announced support to the Congress barring the constituencies of Adilabad and Bodhan. Jamaat e Islami Hind, Telangana, however has remained silence.

According to sources it is waiting for the approval from the Jamaat headquarters in Delhi for the proposal it has sent there.

Ever since the creation of Telangana in the year 2014, Muslims have voted in support of the KCR-led BRS and there is no reason why they will act differently now. The resurgent Congress is hoping that Muslims will go with it as they did in Karnataka. But analysts say the scenario in Karnataka was quite different. With controversies raging around hijab, halal meat, love jihad and Tipu Sultan, Muslims had no choice but to vote for the Congress which was taking on the Hindutva forces. In Telangana there are no such issues with the minority friendly BRS government implementing a number of welfare schemes. And, therefore, there is no reason why Muslims would shift their support base from BRS which has a secular image, say political analysts.

The resurgent Congress is trying hard to gain the confidence of Muslims. But the ‘Minority Declaration’ of the party has nothing new to offer. It is promising more budgetary allocations for welfare schemes already being implemented by the BRS government. The Congress promises to hike the minority budget up to Rs. 4000 crore annually. The community, it is said, is by and large satisfied with the BRS regime. The absence of communal riots is a big plus point in favor of the party.

However, when it comes to the Parliamentary elections, Muslims might vote for the Congress to stop the BJP juggernaut, it is said.

With hardly 10 days left for the polls, political parties are sparing no effort to capture the attention and favor of Muslim voters. Campaign trails are adorned with promises of better representation, socio-economic development, and protection of minority rights. Street corners echo with the impassioned rhetoric of politicians vying for the allegiance of this crucial voting bloc.

Political analysts keenly observe the unfolding dynamics, asserting that the next few days will be instrumental in shaping the trajectory of the election. The decisions made by Muslim voters in these critical days could be the deciding factor that sways the balance in favor of one party over the other. The intricacies of community sentiments, regional dynamics, and historical affiliations weave a complex tapestry that will ultimately determine the course of Telangana’s political future.

J.S.Ifthekhar,

Hyderabad based journalist.

Article published in Siasat.com portal.

Dated November 20,2023

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 It was a phone call from a friend that alerted them to the impending danger. Inayat Mirza’s heart raced as he answered the phone, his friend’s urgent tone sending shivers down his spine. Nasir always dropped in and the duo would go to Pragathi Press where they worked. On Monday morning when Nasir saw flames rising from his friend’s apartment, he immediately telephoned Inayat. The news of flames devouring their apartment ignited panic in the latter. Peering through the window, his eyes widened at the sight of a menacing red ball of fire dancing wildly.

Without losing time, Inayat sprang into action – his mind racing ahead of the spreading inferno. His first instinct was to protect his parents and other family members. Everyone was busy in the morning chores on that fateful day when a blazing fire claimed nine lives in the Bazar Guard area. As the flames started leaping up, Inayat and his elder brother, Yasar Mirza, evacuated their father, Mirza Yousuf Baig and an infant through the kitchen window broken open by the local youth. A ladder arranged by someone proved to be a lifeline to safety. Yasar carried his ailing mother safely out while other family members, including women and children, ran down the stairs even as the fire engulfed their building.

“It was a miraculous escape. Allah saved us all,” says 70-year old Yousuf Baig, his voice choked with gratitude and awe. While many perished in the fire mishap, all the ten members of Yousuf Baig’s family escaped unhurt. The family, of course, lost two bikes in the blaze but it is not unduly perturbed about it.

Even as the Mirzas were in panic, they had the presence of mind to respond to the desperate calls of their Hindu neighbour, Jai Prakash, who lived on the left side of the building which bore the brunt of the fire. While Jai ran down with his son as flames and fumes started rising, his mother, wife and youngest son escaped through Mirza’s house. “While panic gripped us, our neighbours banged the door and we let them in as our house was relatively safe,” says Yaser. Jai, who deals in tea powder, is grateful to the Mirzas for helping his family. “They are nice people,” he says.

There was no time to collect anything. The Mirzas ran out leaving the house unlocked. “Jaan bachi to lakhon paye,” remarks Yousuf Baig, who runs the popular pharmacy, City Medical Hall, in Bazar Guard.

As they reached the ground, the fire’s roar behind them served as a relentless reminder of what could have been. There was utter chaos outside with screams and shrieks rending the thick cloud of smoke. The family reunited on the pavement and couldn’t help but reflect on the fragility of existence.

Though the Mirzas survived the disaster, the tragic loss of fellow inhabitants in the devastating fire has cast a long shadow over the family. The once familiar surroundings now echo with haunting memories. The collective grief of the community permeates the air, making it impossible for the Mirzas to reconcile with the painful reminders that linger in every corner.

After shutting down their pharmacy for two days, the Mirzas are now back in business. But they have now decided to move out from the area perhaps to distance themselves from the heart-wrenching images of the tragedy.

J.S.Ifthekhar,

Hyderabad based journalist.

Article published in Siasat.com portal.

Dated November 16,2023

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In the run-up to the upcoming Assembly elections, a Front representing Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), B.Cs, and Muslims has come forward with an earnest appeal to voters. Their message is clear: voters should exercise their democratic rights judiciously and resist the allure of empty political promises. The appeal stems from the disappointment of many minority communities who voted in the last elections, particularly in support of the BRS party, only to see those promises left unfulfilled.

In the previous election, the TRS party (now BRS) garnered the support of minority communities, who were swayed by promises of inclusive policies and social justice. The party pledged to provide a 12 percent reservation for Muslims, a commitment that resonated deeply with the aspirations of this community. However, as time has passed, it has become evident that these promises have not been honored.

The failure to fulfill the 12 percent reservation promise to Muslims is a stark example of political parties falling short of their commitments. This not only betrays the trust of the minority voters but also highlights a larger issue of political accountability. “When politicians make grandiose promises to secure votes and then fail to follow through, it undermines the very essence of democracy,” said Sanullah Khan, Chairman, SC,ST,BC, Muslim Front.

Addressing a press conference here on Saturday, he said the disappointment faced by minority communities was not isolated but reflected a broader trend. He drew a parallel between the KCR government and the Modi government, to show how both the administrations have not lived up to their pledges regarding minority welfare. Therefore, it is necessary to be vigilant and make informed voting,” said Front members M A Azeez (Movement for Peace and Justice), S A Qadeer, M.A. Masood (advocate).

The Forum held a round table conference at Media Plus auditorium to discuss the current political situation. Later speaking to presspersons the members said during 2014 and 2019 elections, minorities, particularly Muslims unitedly voted for BRS since Telangana was a long standing dream. They were also lured by KCR’s promise to implement 12 percent reservations to Muslims within six months. But till date the promise remains unfulfilled. No concrete steps were taken during the last nine years to improve the educational and economic status of Muslims. The Front members also blamed the BRS government for failure to protect the Wakf properties. Likewise the government failed to appoint a Muslim vice-chancellor and a Muslim member in the State Public Service Commission. This apart the Alair encounter of Muslim youths and many such other things have increased the mistrust of minorities over the years. Empowerment of Muslims through electoral representations also remained a pipedream.

The Front leaders urged voters to carefully study the manifesto of different political parties before exercising their vote. Some members felt the Congress should be given a chance since the party has remained away from power for so many years. They wanted voters to look beyond the superficial allure of political campaigns and examine the track record and sincerity of the candidates and parties they wished to support.

J.S.Ifthekhar,

Hyderabad based journalist.

Article published in Siasat.com portal.

Dated November 4,2023

 

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This influential Muslim panel has made it abundantly clear that it will not be taking sides in the upcoming elections nor endorsing any political party. Instead, it likes to focus on a message of unity and social harmony, calling for voting out forces that spread hatred.

In the run-up to elections, when political parties vie for support and endorsements from various groups and organizations, the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) has chosen to remain neutral. This influential Muslim panel has made it abundantly clear that it will not be taking sides in the upcoming elections nor endorsing any political party. Instead, it likes to focus on a message of unity and social harmony, calling for voting out forces that spread hatred.

The AIMPLB, under the leadership of its president, Maulana Khalid Saifullah Rahmani, has resolved to maintain a steadfast commitment to its core mission of safeguarding the personal laws and rights of Muslims in India. Therefore, its stance on elections transcends political considerations and delves into the realm of social responsibility.

By refraining from endorsing any specific political party or candidate, the Board would like to ensure that it remains an impartial and inclusive organization. This position is in tune with the democratic ethos of the country, where every citizen has the right to make their own political choices based on their beliefs and values.

“The Board wants to underscore the importance of electing leaders and parties that prioritize social cohesion and national unity over divisive rhetoric,” is all that Maulana Rahmani would say.

The Board’s decision not to instruct Muslims on how to vote reflects a commitment to the democratic principles of individual agency and choice. It trusts the electorate to make informed decisions based on their own assessment of candidates and parties, rather than imposing a top-down endorsement. By advocating removal of hate-driven forces, it sends a powerful message that goes beyond politics and underscores the importance of unity in a diverse democracy.

Stick to Sharia

Under the present situation when attempts are being made to interfere in the personal laws of the community, Maulana Rahmani wants Muslims to strictly adhere to the Sharia principles. They should voluntarily enforce the Sharia doctrine in their life no matter what law the government enacts. Be it marriage, divorce, khula or inheritance Muslims should follow the Sharia in letter and spirit. Sharia has fixed the share of sons to double that of daughters in inheritance. If the law of the land says otherwise Muslim women should insist on taking only that much share which Sharia gives them, even if there is a worldly loss. “Such a spirit towards Sharia needs to be developed in these challenging times when attempts are on to deprive Muslims of their personal laws,” he remarked.

He called on the community to work to build bridges of friendship with fellow countrymen. Every Muslim should develop good relations with at least five non-Muslim brethren. They should engage with members of other faiths and share their joys and sorrows. In keeping with the Islamic morals, they should respect elders, women and show compassion to children belonging to other religions. This will create a ripple effect of goodwill across the country in a short span of time.  Such a move will also dispel misconceptions about Islam and help build a tolerant society.

Citing the example of the Prophet of Islam, he called the community to reach out to the oppressed regardless of their beliefs. In matters of human rights, Islam doesn’t make any distinction on the basis of religion. Wherever there are riots be it in Gujarat or Manipur, Muslims should stand by the victims. Muslims are not the only oppressed community in India. Other minorities, particularly Dalits, are also being targeted. The condition of Dalits is more pitiable as they are not even considered human. Even if a Dalit becomes the country’s President, he can’t enter the temple.  “This is an insult to humanity, and it is the duty of Muslims to stand by all those who are wronged,” Maulana Rahmani said.

J.S.Ifthekhar,

Hyderabad based journalist.

Article published in Siasat.com portal.

Dated October 3,2023

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