Category Archives: Community Involvement / Social Issues

150 Educators honoured with AMP National Award for Excellence in Education in Bhopal

Community Involvement / Social Issues, Education, Education - Gold Medallists, Toppers, Merits, Achievers (wef. June 12th, 2023), Events, Exhibitions, Conferences (wef. Nov 18th, 2021), Leaders, Women/Girls(since May26-2021), , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Bhopal, MADHYA PRADESH :

AMP awardees with guests on the stage.

Bhopal : 

On Teachers’ Day, over 150 educators from around the world were celebrated with the 8th AMP National Award for Excellence in Education 2024 at a distinguished ceremony held at Ravindra Bhawan in Bhopal.

The event was presided over by Bhopal Shahar Qazi Maulana Syed Mushtaq Ali Nadvi, with former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister and current Rajya Sabha Member Digvijay Singh serving as the Chief Guest.

The ceremony drew attendees from various educational backgrounds, including award recipients who were present in person, special guests, AMP members and volunteers, and members of the academic community. Many other winners participated virtually, and the event was widely followed on social media.

In his address, Bhopal Shahar Qazi Maulana Syed Mushtaq Ali emphasized the profound role of teachers, citing a saying of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH): “I have been sent only as a teacher to you.” He highlighted the Prophet’s impact through education and quoted Allama Iqbal, who praised the fertile soil of Hindustan for nurturing good deeds. The Qazi reminded attendees of the honor and responsibility of being a teacher, suggesting that a dedicated educator can approach the level of Prophets.

Bhopal Shahar Qazi Syed Mushtaq Ali speaking on the occasion, with senior Congress leader and former chief minister of Madhya Pradesh Digvijay Singh on his right.

Digvijay Singh commended the AMP initiative for uniting Muslim professionals to contribute positively to society. He stressed the importance of prioritizing education and healthcare for national progress. Singh noted the underrepresentation of Muslims in government jobs compared to SC/ST categories and highlighted the need for increased professional education within the Muslim community.

Senior Congress leader and former chief minister of Madhya Pradesh Digvijay Singh speaking on the occasion.

Singh also criticized the state of the education system, pointing to corruption and the prevalence of contract-based teaching positions, which he argued undermine the quality of education. He lamented the shortage of permanent teaching positions and the poor condition of many government schools.

A view of the audience

Prof. Furqan Qamar, former Vice Chancellor of the University of Rajasthan and Central University of Himachal Pradesh, delivered a keynote address advocating for increased participation in higher education and greater public investment to make education more accessible, particularly for rural populations, women, and landless laborers.

Dr. Usha Khare, a National Teacher Awardee and recently retired Principal of Jahangirabad Girls Government School in Bhopal, shared her inspiring journey of advocating for girls’ education in impoverished neighborhoods. She revealed that she donated her prize money from the Kaun Banega Crorepati show to her school and left significant assets upon her retirement.

The awards were presented in seven categories: Primary and Secondary Teachers, College and University Teachers, Principals/Heads of Institutions, Islamic Education (Arabic/Fiqh/Islamic Studies), Educational Institutions, Lifetime Achievement Awards, and the Late Ibrahim Qureshi Memorial Award. Prof. Furqan Qamar was honored with the Ibrahim Qureshi Memorial Award for his exceptional contributions to education.

Lifetime Achievement Awards were given to:

Hazrat Maulana Sayyed Muhammad Aqil, Shaikh-ul-Hadith, Mazahir-ul-Uloom, Saharanpur, UP

Jamaluddin Ahmad Khan, Former Lecturer, Halim Musim Inter College, Kanpur, UP

Sharifa A. Azeez, Correspondent, Crescent Matriculation H.Sec. School, Chennai, TN

Sheila Lawrence, Former Headmistress, Lucknow Christian College, Lucknow, UP

Additionally, 78 educators received Special Jury Awards in various categories, and 50 “My Favourite Teacher” Awards were presented based on votes from students and parents nationwide.

In Bhopal, local awardees included:

*Bushra Parveen, Oakwoods School (Primary & Secondary)

*Dr. Shazia Ali, Campion School (Primary & Secondary)

*Dr. Mohammad Athar, Institute of Excellence (Higher Education)

*Dr. M. M. Malik, MANIT (Higher Education)

*Dr. Sana Khan, Azim Premji University (Higher Education)

*Dr. Siraj Ahmed, MANIT (Higher Education)

*Prof. Dr. Ghayur Alam, National Law University (Higher Education)

*Prof. Asma Rizwan, People’s University (Higher Education)

*Dr. Abid Husain Saify, All Saints’ College of Technology (Higher Education)

*Dr. Faiqa Saulat, Trailblazer International School (Principal/Head)

*Ms. Nikhat Ara, A.U. School (Principal/Head)

The ceremony was also graced by Guests of Honour including MLAs Arif Masood and Atif Arif Aqueel, and Mohammad Wazir Ansari IPS (R), Former DGP – Chhattisgarh. They praised AMP’s significant achievements in education and employment over the past 17 years and commended the thorough selection process and professional execution of the event.

Farooq Siddiqui, Head of the AMP National Coordination Team, hosted the event, reflecting on AMP’s growth from modest beginnings to its present reach across over 200 cities and many countries worldwide.

Kalim Akhtar, Zonal Head – Central India, AMP NGO Connect, presented an English translation of the Holy Qur’an to Digvijay Singh, who accepted it with reverence.

Sajid Qureshi, Acting President of the Ibrahim Qureshi Memorial Study Circle, thanked AMP for their support in organizing the event, and Rafat Iqbal Farooqi, State Head – AMP Madhya Pradesh, offered the vote of thanks to all attendees and the Bhopal Chapter team for their hard work in making the event a success.

source: http://www.indiatomorrow.net / India Tomorrow / Home> Education / by Pervez Bari / September 09th, 2024

Welfare Yuva Karnataka Inaugurated Successfully in Kalaburgi

Community Involvement / Social Issues, Karnataka (under research project), , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Kalaburagi (Gulbarga), KARNATAKA :

Yuva Welfare Karnataka unit of Kalaburgi.

Kalaburgi(Gulbarga): 

On August 8, 2024, Kalaburgi city witnessed the successful launch of “Welfare Yuva Karnataka,” the youth wing of the Welfare Party of India for the Karnataka State. The event drew enthusiastic participation from youths across various districts of North Karnataka.

The day began with a vibrant rally leading to the conference hall, where participants energetically chanted slogans. Advocate Taher Hussain, the state president of the Welfare Party, officially inaugurated the event. The flag of Welfare Yuva Karnataka was then ceremoniously handed over to Mr. Muhammad Rafiq, the state general secretary of the youth wing.

The assembly saw the participation of hundreds of youths from North Karnataka. The inaugural address was delivered by Mujahid Pasha Khureshi, the state vice president of the party. During the event, two notable achievers from Kalaburgi were honored with the Welfare Yuva Award.

Key addresses were made by Muhammad Rafiq, General Secretary of Welfare Yuva Karnataka, along with state secretaries Riaz Ahmed, Talat Yasmin, Mubeen Ahmed, Asif Bilikudri, and C.H. Salaam. The program concluded with a closing speech by Habibullah Khan, the state vice president. The event was skillfully hosted by Afzal Hussain Humnabad, the district vice president of Bagalkote.

source: http://www.indiatomorrow.net / India Tomorrow / Home> News> Society / by India Tomorrow Admin / September 09th, 2024

Wajid Khan: An artist’s unique obsession with Mahatma Gandhi

Amazing Feats, Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Business & Economy, Community Involvement / Social Issues, Inventions, Innovations (wef. Nov 30th, 2021), World Opinion, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

MADHYA PRADESH :

Wajid Khan Artist with the portrait of Mahatma Gandhi he made with nails.

Few artists are as passionately obsessed with Mahatma Gandhi as Wajid Khan, whose love and reverence for Gandhi manifest in extraordinary ways through his art. Wajid’s devotion to the Father of the Nation is evident not only in the subjects of his artwork but also in the innovative techniques he uses to create them. Whether by assembling nails, arranging goggles, or using other unconventional materials, Wajid Khan’s portrayal of Gandhi is a testament to his deep admiration.

Gandhi ji art by Wajid Khan #shorts

Wajid Khan  a multifaceted artist—a portraitist, sculptor, inventor, and patent holder—known for pushing the boundaries of traditional art. He specializes in creating intricate works of art using unconventional materials such as iron nails, bullets, metal, stones, automobile parts, medical equipment, iron rods, and more. His passion for creativity is boundless, and his art often reflects his deep emotions and thoughts about the world and the figures who have shaped it.

Among his many talents, Wajid’s ability to carve canvases using iron nails has garnered international acclaim. His work has earned him places in prestigious records such as the Guinness Book of World Records, Limca Book of Records, and Asia Book of Records. His artistic prowess is admired from Mumbai to Dubai, captivating both art connoisseurs and the general public with his exceptional nail art.

Although Wajid has made portraits of numerous iconic personalities, including Indira Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, Sardar Patel, Dhirubhai Ambani, and Nelson Mandela, his fascination with Mahatma Gandhi stands out. His first portrait, fittingly, was of Gandhi—a powerful expression of his love and passion for the man who led India to independence. Wajid meticulously used thousands of iron nails to craft this portrait, each nail symbolizing the unwavering dedication and perseverance Gandhi embodied throughout his life.

Wajid’s connection to Gandhi goes beyond artistic inspiration. His admiration for Gandhi stems from the values of patience and truth that Gandhi represented. “There are many qualities in Gandhiji that impressed me deeply,” Wajid shared in an interview. “His power of patience and his commitment to truth are what stand out the most. For me, those who hold onto patience and never lie are truly great individuals.”

One of the moments that left an indelible mark on Wajid was when he visited a museum and saw letters written by Gandhi in which the leader openly admitted his mistakes. “It takes a big heart to admit one’s mistakes in public,” Wajid reflected. “I greatly admire Gandhi’s patience and steadfastness.”

Wajid’s connection to Gandhi also has personal roots. He fondly recalls stories from his grandfather, who would attend Gandhi’s meetings during the freedom movement in India. “My grandfather used to tell us about the time when he was very young and would participate in Gandhi’s meetings. Enthusiastic crowds would gather to listen to Gandhi, and when they returned, they were always calm and composed,” Wajid recounted. The calm demeanor Gandhi inspired in his followers left a profound impact on Wajid, influencing both his life and his art.

In one of his most ambitious projects, Wajid demonstrated the extent of his dedication to honoring Gandhi. He organized an event where 6,000 people were gathered in a stadium, carefully arranged in a formation that created a massive portrait of Gandhi. This live depiction showcased not only Wajid’s artistic genius but also his ability to bring people together to celebrate Gandhi’s legacy.

Wajid Khan’s artistic journey is a remarkable blend of creativity, innovation, and an unyielding devotion to Gandhi’s principles. Through his portraits, sculptures, and inventive techniques, he continues to keep the spirit of Gandhi alive, inspiring others with the same values of patience, truth, and perseverance that Gandhi embodied.

source: http://www.muslimmirror.com / Muslim Mirror / Home> Indian Muslim> Positive Story / by Syed Zubair Ahmad / October 02nd, 2024

Social worker Iqbal Manna selected for Swami Vivekananda State Award

Amazing Feats, Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Community Involvement / Social Issues, Karnataka (under research project), ,

Brahmagiri (Udupi), KARNATAKA :

 Iqbal Manna, a committed social worker from Brahmagiri, Udupi, has been selected for the prestigious Swami Vivekananda State Award, recognising his tireless efforts to promote Kannada and Tulu languages in Gulf countries. The award is presented by the People’s Council for Human Rights.

Manna has gained recognition for his social and philanthropic activities in Qatar, where he is a founding member of the Qatar Tulu Koota and KMCA Qatar. After returning to India, he continued his involvement with various social organisations.

He has held leadership positions in numerous prominent associations, including the Udupi Giants Group, Haji Abdullah Charitable Trust, Saheban Welfare Trust, Udupi District Muslim Union, Muslim Welfare Association, and the Brahmagiri Hashimi Mosque. His active role in the Udupi District Minorities Forum further highlights his dedication to community welfare.

The award ceremony will be held on September 28 at 5:30 pm at the Lions Bhavan in Brahmagiri, Udupi

source: http://www.daijiworld.com / DaijiWorld.com / Home> Karnataka / by Media Release / September 26th, 2024

From Paan Shop to IIT Kanpur: The Inspiring Journey of Affan Momin

Amazing Feats, Community Involvement / Social Issues, Education - Gold Medallists, Toppers, Merits, Achievers (wef. June 12th, 2023),

Bhiwandi, MAHARASHTRA :

Affan Momin’s convocation ceremony

Bhiwandi :

Affan Abdul Aziz Momin, son of a paan shop owner from the slums of Zaitoonpura here, has achieved what many dream of but few attain – admission to IIT Kanpur, one of India’s top engineering institutes. His journey, marked by immense perseverance and sacrifice, saw him rise from humble beginnings in an Urdu medium school to earning a degree in Aerospace Engineering. Today, Affan serves as a Control Engineer at Vestas Wind Technology, a multinational leader in wind turbine manufacturing, showcasing that hard work and dedication can indeed turn dreams into reality.

Affan Momin with his parents

Affan’s path to success was not easy. Financial difficulties threatened to derail his education on more than one occasion. When he secured admission to Defense Institute of Advanced Technology (DIAT) in Pune, his family couldn’t afford fees.

It was then that his sisters made the ultimate sacrifice, selling their cherished jewelry to ensure that their brother’s dreams did not go unfulfilled. This act of selflessness kept Affan’s aspirations alive, allowing him to continue his studies and eventually secure a place at IIT Kanpur.

Even after securing a spot at IIT Kanpur, the financial strain persisted. The family’s resources were stretched thin, and Affan feared his dreams might remain unrealized.

However, the kindness of his BE professor, Dr. Rahul Makade, who paid his admission fees, proved that humanity and compassion transcend all barriers. This support, combined with the monthly stipend Affan received from the government, enabled him to focus on his studies without the burden of financial worries, paving the way for his eventual success.

Affan’s journey is a beacon of hope for the community, illustrating that perseverance, faith, and the support of loved ones can overcome even the most daunting challenges. He encourages others to never give up on education, no matter the difficulties, as help will always come to those who strive sincerely. His story is a reminder that every obstacle can lead to greater success, and that with determination and the right support, even the most improbable dreams can come true.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Focus> Markers of Excellence / by Radiance News Bureau / September 02nd, 2024

Kashmiri Journalist Arjumand Shaheen Wins Laadli Award for Exposing Gender Bias in Local Governance

Amazing Feats, Community Involvement / Social Issues, Women/Girls(since May26-2021)

JAMMU & KASHMIR :

Renowned Kashmiri journalist Arjumand Shaheen has received the Laadli Media and Advertising Award for Gender Sensitivity 2024 for her 2022 report on “Kashmir’s Proxy Sarpanches.” She was recognized with the Web Jury Appreciation Citation in the English category.

Published by Article-14.com in 2022, the report exposes the misuse of statutory posts meant to empower women through the practice of “Sarpanch Patis.” She earned recognition for her report “Kashmir’s Proxy Sarpanches: Women Elected to Reserved Seats Have Become Rubber Stamps for Men,” which highlights male dominance and governance issues in Kashmiri local bodies.

Speaking to Radiance, Ms. Shaheen said, “I feel honored that my work has been recognized. Media wields significant power in shaping public opinion and attitudes towards gender. To combat existing stereotypes, we need more stories with a gender perspective. The media often focuses on male-centric narratives, so it’s crucial to also highlight women-centric stories to achieve a balanced portrayal. Such stories can inspire change and help combat gender discrimination over time. My piece addresses how the ‘panch-pati’ misuses power and highlights the lack of genuine political participation by women.”

Ms. Shaheen received the award at a ceremony in Mumbai this week wherein she was honored for her role in promoting gender sensitivity through media.

The Laadli Media and Advertising Awards annually celebrate journalists and media professionals who challenge patriarchal and misogynistic attitudes in society.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Pride of the Nation> Awards> Latest News / by Radiance News Bureau / September 15th, 2024

Mysuru’s Extraordinary individuals share their extraordinary journeys

Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Books (incl.Biographies - w.e.f.01 jan 2018 ), Community Involvement / Social Issues, Karnataka (under research project), Uniquely Indian - Inter Faith (wef. February 08th, 2023), , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Mysuru, KARNATAKA :

Mysore/Mysuru:

In a unique session, extraordinary individuals from different domains came together for a rare confluence at the Mysuru Literature Festival last evening. They introduced the audience to new perspectives and showcased their talent beautifully.

Abdul Rasheed, Programme Executive, Akashvani, Mysuru, delivered an engaging speech and introduced the audience to the world of new ideas. He explained his journey through various phases of life and how he embraced several individuals from different social strata as his mentors. He expressed his excitement about presenting his distinctive insights, which will provide a more representative portrayal of himself.

Jabbar Samo, a talented Yakshagana artiste from Uttara Kannada district, shared his experiences and motivations. He shed light on the significance of his performances in different aspects of life, both at the societal and personal levels. He also acknowledged the numerous individuals he considers his gurus and how they have influenced him.

He expressed how art flourishes without a specific reason and shared the dedication of Yakshagana artistes, who work without any external motivation. Despite facing difficulties as a member of the Muslim community, Jabbar Samo fearlessly pursued his passion. “Due to the prevailing circumstances, pursuing formal education was not possible, but I found solace in Kannada poems sung at the school, which fuelled my interest in the language,”  he recalled.

Mohammed Kaleemulla, a retired teacher from Nagamangala taluk, dedicated his life to the preservation of historical temples, monoliths and hero stones in Mandya district. He explained the architectural aspects of these stones, their current conditions and the ongoing efforts to safeguard them with the support of Shri Kshetra Dharmasthala. “Many hero stones are being used for mundane purposes like drying clothes. I took it upon myself to inform the villagers and engage in the preservation work,” he said.

Syed Isaq narrated how he had built the library with zinc sheet roof at the corner of a playground in Rajivnagar and has been running it for the benefit of the public for 12 years. He also told the audience how the library was burnt down and his efforts to rebuild it.

“I have never been to school but my love for books gave wings to my dream of setting up a library. I built the library with 85 percent of books in Kannada and newspapers of various languages. My Kannada library is located in an area where there is a majority of the Urdu-speaking population and Kannada language must be propagated in areas like these,” he added.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / July 03rd, 2024

PCI announces Moulvi Muhammad Baqir Award to honour journalists for exemplary work

Amazing Feats, Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Community Involvement / Social Issues, Martyrs of the Nation, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

NEW DELHI :

PCI President Gautam Lahiri addressing the gathering

In a significant move, the Press Council of India (PCI) has announced the institution of the Molvi Baqar Award to recognize and honour three outstanding journalists from the Urdu, Hindi, and English media every year.

PCI President Gautam Lahiri revealed this during an event commemorating the life and contributions of Molvi Muhammad Baqar, a pioneering figure in Indian journalism and the first journalist to be martyred during the 1857 Indian Rebellion.

“The criteria for this award will be to encourage journalists to follow in the footsteps of Molvi Baqar, who made the ultimate sacrifice while covering the events related to the 1857 ‘Mutiny’ through his newspaper, Delhi Urdu Akhbar,” said Lahiri in his presidential address. He added that PCI would soon finalize the modalities and constitute a jury to select the awardees.

The event, which focused on “The Life and Times of Moulvi Muhammad Baqir ,” highlighted his role as a patriotic journalist who played a key part in preparing the ground for India’s freedom. Historian and author Dr. Swapna Liddle, the Chief Guest at the event, praised Baqar’s commitment to the nation’s cause, despite the controversies surrounding his role.

“Some confusion exists due to the views of his son, Mohammad Hussain Azad, a renowned Urdu literary figure, who appeared to have taken a contrary position to his father. However, this must be understood in the context of the reign of terror during that time,” said Dr. Liddle, clarifying that Azad’s actions were likely influenced by the pressures of British rule.

Shoib Raza Fatmi, Editor of Hamara Samaj, reinforced this perspective by noting that Azad’s name frequently appeared in Delhi Urdu Akhbar as Editor, Printer, and Publisher, indicating his involvement in his father’s journalistic mission despite the difficult circumstances.

The program also featured a panel discussion moderated by Mahtab Alam, where young Urdu journalists discussed the relevance of Molvi Baqar’s journalism in today’s media landscape. Munazah Shah of News 18 pointed out the striking similarities between the challenges faced by Baqar in his time and those confronting the Urdu media today, particularly financial pressures and the need to foster communal harmony.

“The challenges faced by Molvi Baqar and today’s Urdu media are not very different. We should look to him as a role model for overcoming these obstacles,” said Sohail Akhtar Qasmi of Al Jazeera Arabic.

Tasleem Raja, a journalist with Siyasi Taqdeer and Qaumi Awaaz, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing how much contemporary media could learn from Baqar’s work in covering sensitive and complex issues.

A.U. Asif, a senior PCI member who was instrumental in connecting the Urdu media with PCI initiatives, lauded Molvi Baqar’s pioneering work in investigative journalism. “Molvi Baqar was one of the first to practice on-the-spot reporting and investigative journalism between 1837 and 1857 through his newspaper Delhi Urdu Akhbar, a practice that is now common in today’s media,” said Asif. He congratulated the PCI for unveiling Molvi Baqar’s portrait in its central conference hall, a tribute to his lasting legacy.

The event, organized to mark the martyrdom of Molvi Baqar on September 16, was held a day earlier this year due to the coinciding celebration of the Prophet’s birth anniversary. A large number of journalists attended, and the program concluded with a question-and-answer session.

The institution of the Molvi Baqar Award is seen as a step toward encouraging journalists to adhere to principles of courage and integrity in their work, much like the pioneering figure it honors.

source: http://www.muslimmirror.com / Muslim Mirror / Home> Indian Muslim> Media> Positive Story / by Muslim Mirror Desk / September 16th, 2024

Saira Bano Khan Transforms Lives Through Education in Bijapur Slums

Amazing Feats, Community Involvement / Social Issues, Education, Karnataka (under research project), Leaders, Women/Girls(since May26-2021),

Bijapur, KARNATAKA :

Fifteen years of dedication, resilience, and hope led to a school that uplifts underprivileged children and their families in Karnataka.

New Delhi:

In the heart of Bijapur in Karnataka, one woman’s belief in the transformative power of education has changed the lives of countless children and their families. Saira Bano Khan, who started the New National High School 15 years ago, remains unwavering in her mission to offer children from slum areas a brighter future through learning.

Bijapur city is well known for its historical monuments of architectural importance built during the rule of the Adil Shahi dynasty.

“It all started when I saw the children around my neighbourhood,” Saira Bano said. “Most of them were school dropouts, working odd jobs like selling flowers or working in garages. It pained me to see them wasting their potential,” Sanmarg Hindi newspaper cited her as saying.

With the support of her husband, Saira Bano began a small school in a room of her own house, with only four students and one teacher. Today, New National High School serves 200 students and offers education up to the 12th grade. The school has become a beacon of hope for children from the local slums, particularly those from marginalised communities.

New Path

When Saira Bano started the school, many of the students had no basic manners or discipline. “The children used foul language and had difficulty sitting still,” she recalls. “It took months of patience and guidance to help them change. But now, they are polite, well-mannered, and eager to learn. It’s our greatest success.”

Parents have also become part of the process. Saira Bano organises regular meetings to educate them on their role in shaping their children’s behaviour. “We tell them that building a good life starts with teaching good values at home,” the report quoted her as saying.

Despite these successes, the school faces numerous challenges, especially when it comes to finances. “We struggle with funding,” Saira Bano said. “I dream of building a proper school with a laboratory, library, and playground, but for now, we make do with what we have.”

Commitment to Community

Beyond the classroom, Saira Bano has committed her resources to support the school. She and her husband donated their old family home, consisting of seven rooms, to be used as classrooms. She has also invested her savings in buying land for future school expansion. “I didn’t save much for my children. Instead, I saved to build a wall around the land, hoping one day to construct a proper school,” she said.

Her involvement doesn’t stop at education. During the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan, she and her husband distribute groceries and clothes to the students’ families. “Around 40% of the children in our school are orphans or come from extremely disadvantaged backgrounds. My dream is to open a hostel for them.”

Hope Amid Hardship

The COVID-19 pandemic added extra difficulties, with several boys dropping out of school to support their families. “We found some of them working odd jobs during school hours,” Saira Bano recalled. “Our headmistress spoke to their parents and told them they didn’t have to pay any fees, just send their children back to school.” The boys returned, excelled in their studies, and some even achieved distinctions in their exams.

Saira Bano’s work has touched many lives, including a student named Misbah, who was diagnosed with a serious health condition. With no money for surgery, Saira Bano and her headmistress paid for the procedure. “Now, she’s doing well and studying in college,” Saira Bano said with pride.

Instilling Values

Saira Bano’s vision for her students extends beyond academics. She emphasises respect for all religions and cultures. “I teach them about the Gita, Quran, Bible, and other holy books,” she said. “We encourage them to participate in each other’s festivals and to spread love and tolerance. This is how we build a harmonious society.”

The school also focuses on life skills. “We teach boys to respect women, and girls to maintain their dignity,” Saira Bano noted. Her influence on the students’ moral development is reflected in the way older students now correct younger ones when they use inappropriate language. “When I see that, I feel like my work is bearing fruit,” she said.

Looking to the Future

Despite all the challenges, Saira Bano remains hopeful for the future of her school and her students. “I want at least four students from this school to become IAS officers,” she said with a smile. “In sha Allah (God willing), my daughter might also become an IAS officer soon, as she has cleared her CSE exams.”

For Saira Bano Khan, the journey has been one of sacrifice, perseverance, and a deep belief in the power of education. “Our work is rewarding. I love my students, and they love me. Watching them grow into disciplined, responsible individuals is the greatest joy of my life.”

As she continues to nurture the school and its students, Saira Bano’s dream remains clear: to see the children she’s helped grow into adults who will change not only their destinies but that of their entire community.

source: http://www.clarionindia.net / Clarion India / Home> Editor’s Pick> Indian Muslims / by Mohammad Alamullah, Clarion India / September 19th, 2024

Book Review: “Baa Izzat Bari” is poignant exploration of wrongful accusations and the flaws in India’s justice system

Books (incl.Biographies - w.e.f.01 jan 2018 ), Community Involvement / Social Issues, , , , , , , , , , ,

INDIA :

Ba Izzat Bari

Book: Baa Izzat Bari / Written by Manisha Bhalla and Dr. Aleemullah Khan.                                    Published by: Bharat Pustak Bhandar

“Baa Izzat Bari” by Manisha Bhalla and  Dr. Aleemullah Khan is a compelling non-fiction account that explores real-life stories of individuals falsely accused in terror related cases in India, only to be acquitted after long legal battles. The title, which translates to “Honorably Acquitted,” captures the essence of the work—justice being served after a grueling fight, though often at the cost of the individuals’ dignity, time, and peace of mind.

This book sheds light on the flaws within the Indian legal system, particularly highlighting cases of wrongful accusations and the traumatic experiences of the innocent individuals who are caught up in these legal nightmares. Through detailed case studies, the authors offer an insightful look into the personal struggles of those who have been falsely implicated and their journey toward proving their innocence.

Judicial Delays and Systemic Flaws:

The delves into the chronic delays that plague the Indian judiciary. The individuals portrayed in the book endure years, sometimes decades, of legal proceedings before their names are cleared. This is a strong commentary on the systemic inefficiencies that prolong suffering for those falsely accused.

Emotional and Social Impact:

One of the most powerful aspects of “Ba Izzat Bari” is how it focuses on the emotional toll these accusations take. The accused face not only the trauma of legal battles but also the stigma of being labeled criminals in the eyes of society. The book captures how families are torn apart, careers destroyed, and reputations permanently damaged, even after an acquittal.

Resilience and Perseverance:

Amidst the grim reality of these stories, it highlights the resilience of those who continue to fight for justice. Their perseverance, often in the face of hopelessness, serves as a testament to human strength and the will to restore one’s dignity.

Questioning Legal and Ethical Norms:

Through these cases, it raises critical questions about the functioning of the police, judiciary, and society at large. How can the system be reformed to prevent such wrongful accusations? What mechanisms should be put in place to compensate those who are falsely accused? Bhalla leaves these questions open for debate, encouraging readers to think critically about justice in a democratic society.

The is journalistic yet empathetic, balancing factual accuracy with emotional depth. Writers provide meticulous details about each case, using interviews and official records to paint a full picture of the victims’ plight. The narrative style is engaging, keeping readers invested in the personal stories while also provoking thought on larger legal and societal issues.

While the book does an excellent job of bringing attention to the individuals who have suffered, it sometimes lacks a more in-depth exploration of potential legal reforms. The authors could have dedicated more space to discussing solutions or outlining actionable steps that could help prevent future cases of wrongful accusations.

However “Ba Izzat Bari” is a poignant and necessary examination of the human cost of wrongful accusations in India’s justice system. It is both a critique of the systemic flaws and a tribute to the individuals who have suffered under its weight. For readers interested in law, social justice, or human rights, this book offers an eye-opening look at the harsh realities faced by those who are wrongfully accused and ultimately “honorably acquitted.”

source: http://www.muslimmirror.com / Muslim Mirror / Home> Books> Human Rights> Indian Muslims / September 18th,2024