Team Clarion
NEW DELHI – In a significant gathering that showcased unity against communalism, distinguished intellectuals and social leaders from various corners of the nation convened at the Madani Hall of the Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind headquarters in New Delhi on Saturday. Presided over by Maulana Mahmood Asa’d Madani, President of Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind, the event marked a significant step toward addressing the challenges posed by communalism, promoting social cohesion, and devising strategies to counter divisive forces.
Participants at the event highlighted the need for concerted efforts at the grassroots level to counteract the divisive narratives that have gained prominence in recent times. Despite recognizing that the majority of the country supports unity and harmony, the gathering acknowledged the disproportionate influence wielded by voices advocating polarization. The collective sentiment emerged that it’s imperative for society to actively engage in safeguarding India’s rich diversity and unity.
In his inaugural address, Maulana Mahmood Asa’d Madani extended a warm welcome to the attendees, underlining the alarming rise of religion-based animosity targeting specific communities. He emphasized that the Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind has a long-standing commitment to national unity and stressed the importance of continuing dialogue and collaboration to preserve the nation’s diverse fabric.
Renowned social thinker Vijay Pratap underscored the significance of dialogue (Sanwad), applauding the impactful contributions of Jamiat Ulema-i-Hind. He highlighted the organization’s historical sacrifices and the role it played in shaping India’s secular constitution. Mr. Pratap reminded attendees that the essence of India lies in its pluralism, making it essential to engage constructively to maintain its integrity.
Economist Professor Arun Kumar addressed the economic underpinnings of right-wing ideologies, pointing out that economic inequality fuels their propagation. He challenged the government’s claims of poverty eradication and called for genuine measures to address social disparities.
Supreme Court Senior lawyer Sanjay Hegde highlighted the need to defend the Constitution from those who seek to undermine it. He emphasized the importance of practicing the Constitution’s principles in their true spirit.
Dr. Saurabh Bajpai, a historian at Delhi University, stressed that meaningful dialogue requires ideological clarity from all sides. He commemorated Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind’s historical stance against partition and the majority of Indian Muslims’ alignment with a united India.
Prominent Author Ms. Rajni Bakshi advocated for non-violence as a response to prevailing challenges, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the good in everyone while opposing injustice.
The event also witnessed calls for a unified federation across social classes, protection of minority rights, and the dissemination of messages from saints and freedom fighters to counter divisive efforts.
The gathering concluded with gratitude expressed by General Secretary Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind Maulana Hakeemuddin Qasmi. Attendees such as Dr. Indu Prakash Singh, Vijay Mahajan, and Prof. Ritu Priya JNU added their voices to the collective call for unity.
This landmark event served as a resounding testament to the strength of India’s pluralistic ethos, reflecting the commitment of intellectuals, social leaders, and organizations like Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind to counteract communalism and champion harmony in the nation.
