AIMIM MLA-elects

 While the Congress tsunami has swept the ruling Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) away in the just concluded Assembly polls in Telangana, the Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (MIM) bastion in Hyderabad’s old city remains intact. The Congress failed to make any dent here. The Majlis once again demonstrated its supremacy in the old city by decimating its arch-rivals – BJP and MBT. Despite the initial hiccups the Majlis managed to retain its base, clinching victory in its existing 7 Assembly seats. The party came up a cropper in two other constituencies it contested – Jubilee Hills and Rajendernagar.

However, the sweet taste of triumph is tinged with the bitterness of reduced victory margins in two crucial constituencies— Nampally and Yakutpura. The latter being its stronghold, the poor performance has come as a shock to the party. Incidentally, this segment witnessed the lowest polling percentage of 27.87 in the city. The electoral battle for the Majlis was especially tough in these segments with the Congress and MBT candidates putting up a spirited fight. Right from the word go it was a nail-biting, booth-to-booth battle with Feroz Khan of Congress and MBT’s Amjadullah Khan engaged in a neck-to-neck race in Nampally and Yakutpura constituencies respectively. In fact, they threw a scare in the Majlis camp and as the counting of votes progressed it proved to be a touch-and-go situation.

At Darussalam, the party headquarters, the Majlis leadership, and its supporters waited for the outcome with bated breath. There was a palpable relief when former Mayor, Mohammed Majid Hussain, won by 2037 votes in Nampally and Jaffar Hussain Meraj scraped through with a mere 878 votes in Yakutpura. In Karwan constituency too the party faced a tough contest from Amar Singh of BJP in the initial rounds. Ultimately the sitting Majlis legislator, Kausar Mohiuddin, romped home with a comfortable margin of 41,986 votes. However, the biggest win for the party was from its veteran leader, Akbaruddin Owaisi, who retained his Chandrayangutta seat by a huge margin of 81,660 votes. In Bahadurpura, first-time contestant, Mohammed Mubeen, routed his BRS opponent by a margin of 67,025 votes. Ahmad Bin Abdullah Balala, who faced a tough challenge from Shaikh Akbar of Congress in Malakpet, trounced him by 26,106 votes while former Mayor, Mir Zulfeqar Ali, registered a comfortable win from Charminar with a margin of 22,853 votes.

The narrow win in Yakutpura and Nampally constituencies reflects a shifting electorate attitude. The youth, a crucial demographic, seem to have plumped for the Congress in Nampally and leaned towards the MBT’s Amjadullah Khan in Yakutpura. A desire for change resonated among the voters, something the Majlis leadership has to reflect on.

In contrast, Jubilee Hills and Rajendernagar constituencies seemed destined to elude the Majlis. The party, cognizant of this reality, is not unduly perturbed by the outcome. Party candidates, Swamy Yadav (Rajendernagar) and Mohammed Rashed Farazuddin (Jubilee Hills) ended up in the fourth position. At the end of the day, there’s no gain or loss for the Majlis. But the close shave has served as a wakeup call to the leadership.

The Majlis supremo, Asaduddin Owaisi, acknowledged the verdict with respect, expressing gratitude for the voters who supported his party. “We will identify the loopholes and take corrective measures,” he remarked.

All said and done, the close contest in Nampally and Yakutpura has certainly come as a shock to the Majlis leadership. The party has to seriously think of reevaluating its strategies and connecting with the changing aspirations of the electorate. In the final analysis, the electoral outcome presents an opportunity for introspection rather than despair. Though rooted in its stronghold, the Majlis has to grapple with the dynamics of evolving preferences. Adapting to the rising ambitions of the electorate and addressing the changing political landscape is imperative for the party’s sustained relevance

J.S.Ifthekhar,

Hyderabad based journalist.

Article published in Siasat.com portal.

Dated December 4,2023

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In the midst of the clamor surrounding elections, Javeed Kamal stood apart, unwavering in his dedication to the promotion of the Urdu language. True to his name, he did a ‘kamal’ and orchestrated a remarkable event that drew together a diverse group of Urdu enthusiasts. Among them were professors, academics, journalists, and poets, converging to reflect on the current state of affairs concerning Urdu.

The occasion that brought these minds together was the joint celebration of the birth anniversaries of three distinguished personalities—Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, India’s first education minister, renowned poet Allama Iqbal, and the valiant Tipu Sultan, who fiercely resisted the advancement of British forces. As disparate as their fields of influence were, a common thread wove through their legacies—their profound love for their community and a deep attachment to the Quran.

The programme was organized by Javeed Kamal’s quarterly journal, Rekhtanama,  and Anjuman Taraqqi Urdu, Hyderabad. Earlier, there was a bit of confusion when police mistook the programme to be an election meeting. The cops marched into the unassuming confines of the Urdu Hall at Himayathnagar and sought clarification from the event organizers about the nature of the gathering. The police officers were visibly relieved when they realized that they had stumbled upon a cultural affair rather than a politically charged meeting. Without a word, they silently withdrew from the auditorium, leaving the Urdu enthusiasts to continue their programme.

Speakers highlighted the indelible mark on India’s intellectual landscape left by Maulana Azad. His commitment to education as a means of societal upliftment mirrored his love for the diverse communities that composed the tapestry of the nation. Azad’s vision transcended political boundaries; he sought to empower the masses through the enlightenment of knowledge.

Allama Iqbal, the celebrated poet-philosopher, contributed significantly to the cultural and intellectual heritage of the Urdu-speaking world. His poetry resonates with profound spirituality, drawing inspiration from the teachings of the Quran. Iqbal envisioned a society where individuals, irrespective of their background, could find unity through a shared appreciation of their spiritual essence, the speakers said.

Tipu Sultan, the valiant warrior, symbolized resistance against colonial forces. His fierce determination to protect his people from British oppression emanated from a sense of duty rooted in his attachment to the Quranic principles of justice and freedom. Tipu Sultan’s legacy echoed the sentiments that love for one’s community could fuel the courage needed to confront formidable challenges.

Javeed Kamal’s initiative to commemorate these three iconic figures served as a poignant reminder of the enduring values that bind the Urdu-speaking community. The gathering provided a platform for introspection, discussion, and a renewed commitment to preserving and promoting the rich cultural and linguistic tapestry that is Urdu.

Students of Central Public School, Khilwat, paid a poignant tribute to Allama Iqbal. Attired in period costumes they recited the timeless verses of Iqbal’s poem, Ya Rab Dile Muslim ko wo zinda tamanna de, in the context of the challenges being  faced by the community.

Several speakers, including Prof. S.A. Shukoor lamented the gradual detachment of Muslims from their own mother tongue. “What will be the future of Urdu after our generation? ”, wondered Prof Amina Teheseen of Moulana Azad National Urdu University.

The programme saw the exceptional contribution of individuals from different walks of life to Urdu being recognised. Mementoes and awards were given away to many an unsung hero. Some of the awardees were: Sufi Sultan Shattari , Tameez Ahmed Perwaz (Allama Iqbal award for poetry), Muhammad Osman Shaheed, Dr. Islamuddin Mujahid (Tipu Sultan award for oratory), Dr. Majid Daagi (Abdul Raheem Khan award  for literature), Maulana Ghyas Ahmed Rashadi (Zaheeruddin Ali Khan award for social work), Mushtaq Ahmad Saharwardi, Dr. Shaikh Zeenat Parveen (Dr. Mumtaz Mehdi award for humour and satire), J.S. Ifthekhar and  M.A. Majid (Maulana Abul Kalam Azad award for journalism).

The programme stood as a testament to the enduring power of language, culture, and shared values in transcending the noise of electoral politics. In celebrating the legacies of Azad, Iqbal, and Tipu, the Urdu enthusiasts not only honored the past but also kindled a flame of inspiration for the future of Urdu language and culture.

In the midst of the clamor surrounding elections, Javeed Kamal stood apart, unwavering in his dedication to the promotion of the Urdu language. True to his name, he did a ‘kamal’ and orchestrated a remarkable event that drew together a diverse group of Urdu enthusiasts. Among them were professors, academics, journalists, and poets, converging to reflect on the current state of affairs concerning Urdu.

The occasion that brought these minds together was the joint celebration of the birth anniversaries of three distinguished personalities—Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, India’s first education minister, renowned poet Allama Iqbal, and the valiant Tipu Sultan, who fiercely resisted the advancement of British forces. As disparate as their fields of influence were, a common thread wove through their legacies—their profound love for their community and a deep attachment to the Quran.

The programme was organized by Javeed Kamal’s quarterly journal, Rekhtanama,  and Anjuman Taraqqi Urdu, Hyderabad. Earlier, there was a bit of confusion when police mistook the programme to be an election meeting. The cops marched into the unassuming confines of the Urdu Hall at Himayathnagar and sought clarification from the event organizers about the nature of the gathering. The police officers were visibly relieved when they realized that they had stumbled upon a cultural affair rather than a politically charged meeting. Without a word, they silently withdrew from the auditorium, leaving the Urdu enthusiasts to continue their programme.

Speakers highlighted the indelible mark on India’s intellectual landscape left by Maulana Azad. His commitment to education as a means of societal upliftment mirrored his love for the diverse communities that composed the tapestry of the nation. Azad’s vision transcended political boundaries; he sought to empower the masses through the enlightenment of knowledge.

Allama Iqbal, the celebrated poet-philosopher, contributed significantly to the cultural and intellectual heritage of the Urdu-speaking world. His poetry resonates with profound spirituality, drawing inspiration from the teachings of the Quran. Iqbal envisioned a society where individuals, irrespective of their background, could find unity through a shared appreciation of their spiritual essence, the speakers said.

Tipu Sultan, the valiant warrior, symbolized resistance against colonial forces. His fierce determination to protect his people from British oppression emanated from a sense of duty rooted in his attachment to the Quranic principles of justice and freedom. Tipu Sultan’s legacy echoed the sentiments that love for one’s community could fuel the courage needed to confront formidable challenges.

Javeed Kamal’s initiative to commemorate these three iconic figures served as a poignant reminder of the enduring values that bind the Urdu-speaking community. The gathering provided a platform for introspection, discussion, and a renewed commitment to preserving and promoting the rich cultural and linguistic tapestry that is Urdu.

Students of Central Public School, Khilwat, paid a poignant tribute to Allama Iqbal. Attired in period costumes they recited the timeless verses of Iqbal’s poem, Ya Rab Dile Muslim ko wo zinda tamanna de, in the context of the challenges being  faced by the community.

Several speakers, including Prof. S.A. Shukoor lamented the gradual detachment of Muslims from their own mother tongue. “What will be the future of Urdu after our generation? ”, wondered Prof Amina Teheseen of Moulana Azad National Urdu University.

The programme saw the exceptional contribution of individuals from different walks of life to Urdu being recognised. Mementoes and awards were given away to many an unsung hero. Some of the awardees were: Sufi Sultan Shattari , Tameez Ahmed Perwaz (Allama Iqbal award for poetry), Muhammad Osman Shaheed, Dr. Islamuddin Mujahid (Tipu Sultan award for oratory), Dr. Majid Daagi (Abdul Raheem Khan award  for literature), Maulana Ghyas Ahmed Rashadi (Zaheeruddin Ali Khan award for social work), Mushtaq Ahmad Saharwardi, Dr. Shaikh Zeenat Parveen (Dr. Mumtaz Mehdi award for humour and satire), J.S. Ifthekhar and  M.A. Majid (Maulana Abul Kalam Azad award for journalism).

The programme stood as a testament to the enduring power of language, culture, and shared values in transcending the noise of electoral politics. In celebrating the legacies of Azad, Iqbal, and Tipu, the Urdu enthusiasts not only honored the past but also kindled a flame of inspiration for the future of Urdu language and culture.

J.S.Ifthekhar,

Hyderabad based journalist.

Article published in Siasat.com portal.

Dated November 25,2023

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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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Friday sermons in mosques are usually confined to ethical and religious issues. But devotees at a mosque in Hyderabad were treated to a different subject altogether. The other day Maulana Obaidur Rehman Athar, Khateeb of Masjid-e-Teen Posh in Red Hills, waxed eloquent about the upcoming elections in the State. Instead of delving into the intricacies of religious doctrines, his khutba transcended the spiritual realm to wade into the electoral landscape.

In a voice that echoed through the packed mosque, Maulana Obaidur Rahman articulated a perspective grounded in Islamic principles, emphasizing that casting one’s vote is a sacred trust, a duty that goes beyond the temporal allure of monetary gains or other fleeting considerations.

“To accept money in exchange for your vote is to betray the very trust bestowed upon you,” he declared with unwavering conviction. His eloquence painted a vivid picture of civic responsibility intertwined with the moral fabric of Islamic teachings. “O, you who believe! Be upholders of justice, bearing witness for Allah alone,” he said quoting the Quran. In this context he urged Muslims, who are activists of different political parties, to be sincere in their approach. All their efforts should be to please Allah and not anyone else.  Only then the poll outcome would be in the community’s favour,” he said.

He steers clear of politics

Steering clear of politics, he spoke about the importance of voting and the responsibilities of citizens. Voting, in a way, is giving testimony in favour of a person or party. The way false testimony is a major sin in Islam so is voting in favour of a candidate whom one knows is not worthy.

Moreover, in Islam, one is expected to bear witness without being swayed by either monetary or any other considerations. As such one should not cast a vote in exchange for money. Otherwise, it will amount to betraying the trust, a stance firmly rooted in the principles of Islam.

“Selling of votes or the conscience is a betrayal of the trust,” The Maulana declared, setting the tone for a discourse that intertwined religious teachings with civic responsibility. His words served as a reminder that the act of voting is an ethical responsibility that aligns with Islamic principles.

Quoting the scripture and Hadith (Prophetic traditions), the Maulana encouraged a conscientious approach to the electoral process, emphasizing the role of individuals in shaping a society that reflects the principles of justice and welfare. His references to religious texts were aimed at instilling a sense of duty among the attendees, emphasizing that active participation in the democratic process is not only compatible with Islam but is encouraged when it serves the greater good.

Do not sit at home, cast your vote

He further asked Muslims to go out and cast their votes on the day of polling as failing to do so might help a wrong candidate get elected. “There is no point in grumbling about the outcome of elections and the state of affairs when you sit at home on the day of polling”, the Maulana remarked.

Stating that unity is the need of the hour, he regretted that Muslims are divided in matters of elections too. They are pitted against each other in many constituencies much to the detriment of the larger interest of the community.

The Friday sermon sought to bridge the gap between religious teachings and civic responsibilities. Without mincing words, the Maulana urged the worshippers to approach the elections with a discerning eye, guided by principles that extend beyond individual interests. The sermon also demonstrated the adaptability of religious discourse to address contemporary issues. It sure left an indelible mark on the minds of those present.

.S.Ifthekhar,

Hyderabad based journalist.

Article published in Siasat.com portal.

Dated November 18,2023

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 The new initiative of HHF comes in the wake of rising cases of abandonment, divorce, domestic violence, health and financial insufficiency in the Jalpally area of Maheshwaram Mandal.

Ever since its inception in 2007, the Helping Hand Foundation (HHF) has been a beacon of medical assistance to the marginalized sections of society. Now it has extended its compassionate reach to the delicate realm of matrimonial disputes. What sets this initiative apart is its unique setting—a counseling center nestled within a mosque, marking a pioneering step forward in community-based conflict resolution.

Traditionally known for its swift responses to medical emergencies, the HHF’s decision to delve into marital dispute resolution reflects a holistic approach to community well-being. The counseling center, situated within a mosque, signifies a convergence of faith and practical support, embodying the spirit of unity and understanding.

The new initiative of HHF comes in the wake of rising cases of abandonment, divorce, domestic violence, health and financial insufficiency in the Jalpally area of Maheshwaram Mandal. The 28 wards in this municipal division have over 40 slums with a 50,000 population, mostly poor minorities. A survey done in this area showed that there are many vulnerable women among the widows, single and abandoned. Most of them have three and more children to take care of.

The HHF has collaborated with the Masjid Al Rehmatul Alameen near the Jalpally gate to set up an exclusive women’s family counseling and empowerment centre. Services of legal experts and religious counselors have been requisitioned to address the issues faced by the women. A help desk is also set up in the mosque to link women to all government entitlements, through Aadhaar, ration and Aaryogyasri cards, and livelihoods through skill development and facilitating SHGs in women.

“We are looking at holistic community development by providing free health care and empowerment with a focus on women and children,” says Mujtaba Hasan Askari, the man behind HHF.

In the last 45 days more than 100 cases of domestic violence have been registered at the centre. “Our main priority is to reconcile the family. The results are slow,” admits Askari.

However, a positive fall out of the counseling centre is that domestic violence has come down to a great extent since the erring husbands know there is some organization standing behind their harassed wives.

Interested persons may contact the Helpline through the numbers: 8688827566, 6303650307.

HHF already has 8 primary health care centers functioning in the Jalpally municipal limits with access to free health care. Now the newly set up family counseling centre seeks to empower women while addressing some of the social issues confronting them. “The idea is to enable them to stand on their feet and take care of themselves and their children”, says Askari.

Spread over 1500 sq. ft, the centre attached to the mosque has a separate room with adequate privacy to deal with family and matrimonial disputes. There is a separate desk to handle exclusive entitlements and facilitate the process to get Aadhaar, ration and Aaryogyasri cards. In another hall HHF has also placed twenty sewing machines and ten computers to train vulnerable women for sustainability. What’s more, a day care crèche is also provided for children of women who visit the centre. Without this facility many women find it difficult to leave their children behind, it is said.

The HHF’s foray into addressing marital conflicts is guided by the principles of the Quran and Shariah, underscoring a commitment to resolving disputes in accordance with Islamic teachings. Expert counselors, well-versed in both religious doctrines and contemporary counseling techniques, have been enlisted to navigate the complexities of marital discord.

The foundation’s decision to expand its services aligns with a broader societal recognition of the need for comprehensive support systems. Marital disputes, often fraught with emotional turbulence, can benefit from a nuanced approach that combines legal understanding with empathetic guidance. By incorporating Shariah principles into the counseling process, the HHF aims to provide not just resolutions but also healing that aligns with the values cherished by the community it serves.

This innovative initiative not only addresses immediate challenges but also fosters a culture of dialogue and understanding within the community. The mosque-based counseling center serves as a symbol of inclusivity, inviting individuals from all walks of life to seek solace and resolution within the framework of their faith.

As the Helping Hand Foundation comes full circle in its mission, it exemplifies the power of a multifaceted approach to community care—where medical emergencies and interpersonal conflicts are met with equal measures of expertise, compassion, and a steadfast commitment to a better, harmonious future.

J.S.Ifthekhar,

Hyderabad based journalist.

Article published in Siasat.com portal.

Dated November 10,2023

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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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As the Israel-Palestine war rages on,  poet, Imran Pratapgarhi, comes out firing on all cylinders.  And he does it with the only weapon at his disposal- lyrical prowess. He succeeds in igniting emotions with his poignant and moving verses. His new nazm mirrors the pain and suffering of Palestinians like nothing else.

The renowned bard known for his protest poetry paints a vivid picture of the suffering and anguish being experienced by the Palestinian people, drawing a somber parallel to the iconic poem Lab pe aati hai dua by Allama Iqbal.

As the world is shocked by the relentless turmoil in Palestine, Imran Pratapgarhi takes up the pen to channel the collective pain and torment of the Palestinians. His latest nazm is a haunting testament to the enduring struggle for justice and freedom in the embattled region

The poem, inspired by the timeless work of Allama Iqbal, rekindles memories of Lab pe aati hai dua, which has resonated with generations of poetry enthusiasts. However, Pratapgarhi’s composition breathes new life into this revered tradition of Urdu poetry by addressing the contemporary Palestinian predicament. Sample the verse:

Lab pe aati hai dua bun ke tamanna meri

Sun le tu aaj ye fariyad Khudaya meri

Tere mehboob ne jis simit kiye the sajde

Hukum se tere wo ashabe Nabi ke sajde

Sainkadon gham lye seene main hai ghamgeen khada

Ab faqat tere sahaare hai Falasteen khada

Kash duniya samajh pati ye jhagda kya hai

Aap ke ghar pe kisi ghair ka khabza kya hai

Tu jo chahe to har ek baat ko bahtar karde

Ek nazar daal ke halaat ko bahtar kar de

Imran Pratapgarhi’s words serve as a stark reminder that the issues of the past still linger in the present. His poem seeks to shed light on the illegal occupation of the Palestine land and the painful reality of life in the conflict-ridden region. Through his touching verses, he unfurls a tapestry of human suffering, resilience, and hope in the face of adversity.

The last stanza of the poem takes the breath away and moves one to tears. In a throwback to the Quranic story of Ashabe Feel (105th chapter) when Allah destroyed the army of pagans which came riding on elephants to raze down the Ka’ba. But the King Abraha army was destroyed by the huge flocks of Ababeel ( Common Swift bird) sent by Allah which dropped tiny stones of baked clay over elephants. See how Imran Pratapgarhi uses the historical event to plead the cause of Palestine. He says:

Doodh-mohe bachon ke bhi khwab huva Karte hain

Jung karne ke bhi aadab huva karte hain

Hum nahin kehte hamein koee paiyamber dey dey

Tere hi aage jo jhuke hum ko sar de de

Lashkare feel jahalat pe utar aaya hai

Aye Khuda phir se ababilon ko kankar de de

Kaun kehta hai nafrat se chalegi duniya

Tu dikha de ke mohabbat se chalegi duniya

What stands out in the whole nazm is the poetic genius of Imran Pratapgarhi and his ability to capture the raw emotions of the Palestinian struggle along with the depth of their aspirations. His words bridge geographical and cultural gaps, connecting people from all walks of life with the shared yearning for peace and justice.

In a world where the Palestinian-Israeli conflict continues to be a subject of debate, Imran Pratapgarhi’s new composition transcends boundaries and resonates with the hearts of those who yearn for an end to the suffering of the Palestinian people. Moreover his poem serves as a poignant reminder of the power of poetry to transcend borders and touch the core of our collective humanity, offering solace and solidarity to those whose lives have been forever altered by the tumultuous events in the region.

J.S.Ifthekhar,

Hyderabad based journalist.

Article published in Siasat.com portal.

Dated October 22,2023

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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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