Former chairman of Delhi Minorities Commission, Dr. Zafarul Islam Khan, suggested that intellectuals with an understanding of Islam should come forward to address political challenges within the community.
Mohammad Alamullah | Clarion India
NEW DELHI — The recent remarks by Shiromani Akali Dal chief Sukhbir Singh Badal questioning the unity and political effectiveness of Muslims in India, have prompted responses from Muslim representatives who shed light on the complexities of the community’s political landscape.
Former chairman of Delhi Minorities Commission, Dr. Zafarul Islam Khan, acknowledged the changing political dynamics for Muslims in the pre- and post-independence India. Talking to The Inquilab daily, Dr. Khan emphasised the need to consider historical periods to understand the nuanced political landscape
Dr. Khan, the Urdu newspaper said, advocated for collective efforts, suggesting that intellectuals with an understanding of Islam should come forward to address political challenges within the community.
Maulana Tauqeer Raza Khan Barelvi, influential cleric from Uttar Pradesh, maintained that Muslims exhibit unity when issues affecting their faith arise, transcending political affiliations. He emphasised that compromising on principles is not an option for the Muslim community. Maulana Khan expressed concern over potential consequences for other classes if Muslims succumb to pressure, holding silent leaders responsible for the current situation.
He pledged unity in the upcoming general elections, emphasising the need to avoid getting inconsequential in the country’s political milieu.
Prof. Abdushaban from Mumbai’s Tata Institute of Social Sciences, cautioned against comparing the situations of Muslim and Sikh communities. Shaban pointed out that power and representation stem from various factors, including economic stability and military dominance. He urged a self-reflective approach, acknowledging shortcomings and advocating for unity as Indians rather than solely as a community. Shaban stressed the importance of strategic, low-key progress to thwart political weightlessness.
Talking to Clarion India over the phone, Dr. Taslim Rahmani, president of the Muslim Political Council of India, attributed the perceived lack of political influence to incumbent leaders clinging to their positions. Dr. Rahmani called for a generational shift in leadership, urging established leaders to step aside and empower the youth.
As discussions unfold in response to Badal’s comments, the diverse perspectives within the Muslim community underscore the multifaceted nature of the challenges and aspirations facing Muslims in the Indian political landscape.
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Photo: Dr Zafarul Islam Khan
