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Aligarh, December 19: A seminar on Minorities Rights Day was organised by The Noble Support Foundation at the Cultural Hall, Maulana Azad Library, Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), focusing on the theme “Socio-Economic Gaps and Policy: Bridging Inequalities for Viksit Bharat.”
The speakers emphasised the need to protect minority rights, reduce socio-economic disparities, and promote inclusive growth as a foundation for a developed India.
Prof. Mirza Asmer Beg, Department of Political Science, explained the concept of minorities and stressed that safeguarding minority rights is essential for social harmony, justice, and national unity; he also addressed common misconceptions surrounding the term “minority,” explaining that in different historical moments and socio-political contexts, every community may experience minority status, thereby underscoring the fluid and relational nature of the concept.
Prof. Mohammad Rizwan Khan highlighted the historical and contemporary status of Aligarh Muslim University as a minority educational institution, emphasising its vital role in empowering marginalised communities through education; he further called for critical self-introspection within minority communities, urging them to view themselves not merely as vulnerable groups but as a democratic strength, noting that no democracy can be complete without the full realisation of minority rights and that Viksit Bharat 2047 aspires to mark a civilisational milestone in India’s history.
Prof. Syed Ali Nawaz Zaidi spoke about the enduring presence and significant contributions of minorities since independence and drew attention to constitutional safeguards and policy measures aimed at their protection; he also presented an elaborate historical account of minority discourse in Indian politics, highlighting the perspectives of Mahatma Gandhi, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar in strengthening the constitutional foundations of minority rights in India.
The seminar began with a welcome address by Mr. Faizur Rehman Sherwani, who introduced the theme and underlined the importance of recognising minorities as an integral part of the country’s democratic fabric.
The programme was graced by several distinguished guests, including Prof. Vibha Sharma, MIC Public Relations Office; Prof. Iffat Asgar, Deputy Proctor; Prof. Nishat Fatima, Librarian, Maulana Azad Library; Prof. Naseem Ahmad, former Chairman, Department of Social Work; Dr. Syed Kaleem Afrough, University Polytechnic; Dr. Mohammad Tahir; Dr. Mohammad Arif; Dr. Qurratul Aein Ali; Dr. Sadaf, Centre for Food Technology; Dr. Rashid Imran, Assistant Proctor; and Dr. Mojahid Ali Khan, Assistant Dean of Students’ Welfare, AMU.
The seminar concluded with a vote of thanks by Mohammad Azeem Khan, President of The Noble Support Foundation, who expressed gratitude to the speakers, special guests, participants, volunteers, and the university authorities for supporting a meaningful dialogue on minority rights and the vision of Viksit Bharat.
The proceedings were conducted by Ayman. Members and volunteers of The Noble Support Foundation, including Kamrul Hussain (Vice President, NSF), Mohd Anash, Ayman, Salman, Faiz, Dua Rashidi, Affan, Uroos, Shubham, Zulkif, Anees, Irshad, Nadeem Gauhar, Tittu Kumar, Arsh, etc., played an important role in the successful organisation of the seminar.
Source: Aligarh Muslim University News