Mujeeb Khan’s protest aims to draw attention towards educational disparities faced by Muslims and to urge the government to provide necessary support
Team Clarion
AURANGABAD – Prominent social activist and president of Amit Pratishthan Foundation, Mujeeb Khan, has begun a hunger strike at Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar University in Marathwada, Maharashtra, demanding free education for poor Muslim students.
His protest aims to draw attention towards educational disparities faced by Muslim communities and to urge the government to provide necessary support.
Khan’s demand is clear: free education for economically disadvantaged Muslim students of both genders. “In 2011, I met with the then Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Minister Salman Khurshid, emphasising the need for special attention to the impoverished Muslim population,” Khan said. “The government has provided medical and ration facilities to many; similarly, educational facilities should also be extended to Muslim children to ensure they receive higher education.”
Mujeeb Khan has sent a demand letter to the state chief minister and deputy chief minister, advocating for immediate action. “The chief minister and deputy chief minister have forwarded our demand letter to Minority Minister Abdul Sattar. We are hopeful that the government will act on this demand as soon as possible,” he stated.
Khan highlighted that several government-formed committees have acknowledged the dire educational conditions of Muslims and recommended reservation for them. “Despite these recommendations, the government has not provided reservation to Muslims. If the government is willing, it can implement various measures to integrate Muslims into the educational mainstream,” he added.
The hunger strike has garnered attention and support from various quarters, with many recognising the urgent need to address educational inequities. The protest reflects a broader call for inclusive policies that cater to the needs of all marginalised communities.
As Mujeeb Khan continues his hunger strike, the onus is now on the government to respond to the demands and take concrete steps to ensure that education becomes accessible to every Muslim student in need.
