DELHI :

The seven-decade-old Urdu paper is set to go digital

Milestone: Nai Duniya issues of 1973 | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

A 72-year-old newspaper is ready to shave off its white beard. Helping it speak to the hep and happening young readers is the equally old editor-politician-author Shahid Siddiqui.

Starting in 1950 as an eveninger, Nai Duniya was among the first victims of COVID-induced restrictions and challenges. Now it is poised for a comeback albeit as a weekly in digital format. Siddiqui says, “At a time when it is difficult for even English magazines to find vendors, and given the increased online traffic, it makes sense to re-launch Nai Duniya in the language of the new world. We will revive Nai Duniya as an Urdu weekly in digital format.”

Siddiqui is the right person to revive the paper. He had re-launched it in 1973 after his father Abdul Waheed Siddiqui had to pay the price for skirmishes with the government. Recalls Siddiqui, “I was still pursuing my Master’s degree from Delhi University when I realised there was a demand for Nai Duniya. I revived the paper a little before Emergency and took on an established paper like Blitz which was quite popular among Urdu readers. At the time of Emergency, we were the only Urdu newspaper to criticise the government. Incidentally, Indira Gandhi gave us an  interview soon after losing power in 1977.”

THOSE WERE THE DAYS Staff of Nai Duniya in 1951 with the founder Abdul Waheed Siddiqui (seated in the centre). Young Shahid Siddiqui, the present editor, can be seen in the lap of his brother.  | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

Though Nai Duniya developed distinct political contours over time, it started as a hangout zone for the best Urdu writers and poets of Old Delhi. Shortly after the paper went to press around 3 p.m., the poets and writers would gather at its office in Haveli Hisamuddin in Ballimaran. Over endless cups of tea, they would recite poetry, crack jokes and take a dig at the society and polity. Among them were the likes of Zubair Rizvi, Salam Machchlishahri and Josh Malihabadi.

As Siddiqui says, “My father had worked with Al Jamiat. After Independence, the newspaper refused to speak against the Congress party. He parted ways and started Nai Duniya instead.”

The good times of soirees and gentle jokes did not last long. Soon the paper found itself embroiled in a controversy related to Kashmir. The paper had opposed the arrest of Sheikh Abdullah. Its entry was banned in the State. The declaration of the paper was cancelled, its security forfeited and in 1964-65, the paper had to fold up.  

“My father brought out two other papers instead – Himmat and Taqat. They did not last long. Then Nai Duniya was revived after Feroz Gandhi introduced a private member’s Bill in Parliament against asking for a security deposit for a newspaper. The Bill was passed. Nai Duniya once again raised its voice against the ongoing riots and paid the price. There were raids at our place, all the stuff was checked, even the pillows were ripped apart to see anything suspicious hidden there,” recounts Siddiqui.

Milestone: Nai Duniya issue of 2002 | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

Finally, Nai Duniya came back in a new avatar as a weekly. Within six months, it became the highest-selling weekly in the country, selling from stalls in Kashmir to Karnataka. Denizens of Old Delhi, in particular, used to wait for it and would discuss its stories over endless cups of tea all over again. The government took note too. Its founding editor Abdul Waheed was arrested during the Emergency.

The Kashmir challenge remained for the paper. Siddiqui received death threats from Lashkar-e-Taiba, Hizbul Mujahideen, etc in the mid-80s. Recalls Siddiqui, “I was arrested under TADA after Farooq Abdullah’s government was felled.”

Yet amidst all the challenges, Nai Duniya flourished. Its office moved from the cultural hub of Old Delhi to the more upmarket Nizamuddin. From an eight-pager, the paper grew into a 24-page tabloid with stories carrying a punch. Along the way, it was the first to introduce computers in Urdu newspapers, started the concept of theme-based pages and invited the best journalists to write for it.

It worked well until the pandemic enforced its closure. Now at 72, it is set to revive again, this time as a digital newspaper, yet with the same old fire and punch.

source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> Cities> Delhi / by Ziya Us Salam / June 24th, 2022

DELHI :

Speakers talked poignantly at the launch of Shahid Siddiqui’s novel about the indivisible history of India and Pakistan

Shahid Siddiqui. Photo: R.V. Moorthy

The love-hate relationship between the people of India and Pakistan has been masterfully woven around the lives and aspirations of two brothers, Shiraz and Aijaz, by the politician and journalist turned author, Shahid Siddiqui. The launch of Siddiqui’s first work of English fiction, “The Golden Pigeon”(Harper Collins), saw a packed house at the India International Centre this Wednesday.

pix: harpercollins.co.in

The book was released by veteran journalist Kuldip Nayar who spoke passionately about the need to believe in Gandhi’s ideas of secularism and pluralism in this time of increasing hatred and ‘love jihad’. Barkha Dutt, group editor NDTV, moderated an interesting dialogue between the author, Nayar and noted film director Mahesh Bhatt.

Nayar recounted his experience of covering the post Partition riots — the disillusionment, horror of countless people rendered orphans and homeless, killed and maimed, families torn apart — and felt that Siddiqui’s book brought out the trauma and fear of Partition in a very sensitive manner. “The book reminds me of my younger days in Ballimaran — the old world charm, the magic of an era forgotten, the memories of riots. Reading the book brought tears to my eyes,” he said.

Barkha commented that the book is a story at many different levels, of schizophrenia about Pakistan’s devious designs to stir trouble in India, of dysfunctional love, manufactured stories about love jihad and passion.

Siddiqui said the book was rooted in his experiences of growing up in Shahjahanabad, the struggles of people in post Partition India, the invisible line drawn between the two countries, of aspirations, anger and fear of a people divided by a political decision. “My book is full of magical realism and begins from where the famous movie Garm Hava ends. It is a bird’s-eye view of the social upheaval and political turmoil in the subcontinent and post Partition angst. But this is not a political book at all,” said Siddiqui emphatically.

Bhatt felt that the book has what he likes to call ‘the perfume of sorrow’ and said he could easily identify with the central characters in the novel. “This book caught me by my jugular. It’s my life in print — a fiction of facts,” said Bhatt while discussing at length the dichotomy of growing up as the love child of a Muslim woman and a Hindu man. He recounted how his mother braved the odds to raise him as a Hindu while she hid her own identity as a Muslim under the garb of a mangalsutra and bindi. He also said the character of the beautiful Hina Kauser in the book was a portrayal of his mother’s steely determination to survive the odds. “The compass of our nation and that of Pakistan points towards hope. A time will come when the boundaries in our hearts and minds will fade away. The change has already begun,” said Bhatt.

source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> Features> Metroplus / by Anasuya Basu / image edited : Harper Collins / November 21st, 2014

DELHI :

An excerpt from Shahid Siddiqui’s fascinating memoir of culture, society and politics

WORLD APART: The tangled lanes of Old Delhi where Abdul Waheed Siddiqui (right) started the evening daily Nai DuniyaSourced by the Telegraph

In those post-Partition days, there were unseen borders drawn in old Delhi — what in today’s parlance is called Delhi-6. There were Muslim and Hindu areas within the same lane. Haveli Hesamuddin in Ballimaran was the mohalla (locality) of a prosperous Muslim business community called Punjabis or the Shamsi baradari. It was, therefore, in common parlance known as ‘Punjabi Phatak’ (Punjabi Gate). In reality, they were not Punjabis, but had migrated from Central Asia; they were very fair-skinned, some of them had blue eyes and blond hair. None of them spoke Punjabi. Most of them owned shops and businesses in Chandni Chowk and Sadar Bazar. Many of them owned large showrooms and hotels in Connaught Place and Kashmiri Gate, with palatial houses in Civil Lines, which was at that time the most expensive and posh residential area of Delhi. Our family was one of the few non-Punjabis living there, and was looked upon with suspicion. The government and administration allotted us a house that belonged to a prosperous Muslim family that had migrated to Pakistan…

…In the 1950s, Ballimaran was in great turmoil, and undergoing significant demographic and emotional changes. While some prominent families had migrated to Pakistan, others were gravitating to this place from different parts of India. It emerged as the hub of new post-Partition Muslim politics and cultural renaissance. Things were changing, and education was becoming popular. Mohani shifted to our mohalla, and brought all the writers, poets, revolutionaries and freedom fighters with him. Ballimaran was known as the Mohalla of Mirza Asad Ullah Khan Ghalib. With Mohani also spending his last days here, it became a centre of activity for all those with patriotic zeal and revolutionary ideas. Prominent journalist Kuldip Nayar, who migrated from Lahore, came here to spend time with Mohani and practise Urdu journalism. Famous poet Josh Malihabadi, whenever he was in Delhi, preferred to stay here. Theatre practitioners like Habib Tanvir and Baba Niaz Haider found refuge in Haveli Hesamuddin and Ballimaran.

When Abba decided to resign from Aljamiat and launch a daily newspaper Nai Duniya in 1951, the ground floor of the haveli was converted into a newspaper office. For some time, we lived on the upper floor of this two-storey house, but later shifted to a house next door. The upper floor, with large rooms and enormous terraces, became the refuge for those who had no place to go. Nai Duniya was an evening newspaper, so all office work was over by the afternoon. After that, the whole office, its courtyard and terraces were available to idealists, culturally adventurous political mavericks, revolutionary young men, and the most outspoken journalists to spend their time there.

There would be rehearsals for a play on one terrace, while impromptu mushairas would be organized on the other if Jigar Moradabadi or any other famous poet were visiting the city. While Communist Party members would have heated debates on the class character of Nehru’s government in one room, in another, some ulema would plan relief work for some place where a communal riot had broken out. From Habib Tanvir and young M.F. Hussain to poets like Gulzar and Zubair Rizvi, many creatives spent their time in the Nai Duniya office. There were dozens of cots (charpai or khat as we call them in Hindustani) on the terrace. Anyone could sleep there, and have a cup of tea and nahari-roti for breakfast. Thus, in my growing years, my young mind was exposed to the most exciting and dynamic melee of ideas and cultural cocktails possible.

In 1952, a young woman called Sarla Gupta, who belonged to a prominent family of Delhi lalas, and lived in Haveli Hyder Quli in Chandni Chowk, came to meet Abba. She wanted to contest the municipal corporation elections from Ballimaran on a Communist Party of India ticket. She had just graduated from Delhi University, and was burning to change society and build a new India. It was unthinkable for a communist to contest and win from a predominantly Muslim constituency, and that too when the candidate was a young woman who had just graduated from university.

Muslims, who had been divided between the Indian National Congress and the Muslim League before Independence, believed that in independent India only Congress could help and protect them. Even those who harboured a dislike for Nehru, Azad and Patel now looked at them as their saviours, and voted for Congress.

They looked at the Hindu Mahasabha and the newly formed Bharatiya Jana Sangh (BJS) with suspicion and fear, apprehending that if these parties came to power, they would marginalize them and treat them as second-class citizens. They regarded any third party as ‘vote katwa’ (divider of their votes), which would ultimately help parties like the Hindu Mahasabha and BJS, which were trying to gain a foothold among Hindus in the post-Partition atmosphere of suspicion and hatred.

Abba’s undeniable spirit pushed him forward, and he agreed to back Sarla Gupta. She defeated the powerful Congress candidate with Abba’s support. It was a prestigious election for Muslim Congressmen, and a test case inasmuch as it was the first post-Partition election. This made the Congress government extremely wary.

Govind Ballabh Pant, a freedom fighter, close confidant of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, and the first chief minister of Uttar Pradesh from 1946 to 1954, was highly wary of communists, and regarded them as dangerous for the country. Sarla’s victory from a Muslim area was exaggerated to foment the fear that Muslims were gravitating in large numbers towards the communists. Some rightist Hindu organizations saw this election as a massive conspiracy — a political takeover of India by the communists with the help and support of Muslims. In the aftermath of the Partition when most Muslim leaders, even progressive ones, had left Indian Muslims in the lurch and migrated to Pakistan, the latter had no one to look up to or raise their voice, and believed that democracy was not meant for them, but only for the Hindu majority.

Reproduced with permission from I, Witness; by Rupa Publications

source: http://www.telegraphindia.com / The Telegraph Online / Home> Life / by Shahid Siddiqui / August 17th, 2025

Erandol Tehsil (Jalgaon District), MAHARASHTRA :

Interview of A young doctor Mustaqeem Pathan resident of Erandol Tehsil of district Jalgaon, Maharashtra has been selected for the post of Research Officer (Scientist) in CCRUM under the Ministry of AYUSH, Government of India.

The Central Council for Research in Unani Medicine has released the list on june 30 of the candidates,who were selected for the post of Research Officer,in which Mustaqeem Pathan of the historic city of “Erandol” has secured the Class-I Gazetted Post Group-A. This achievement is very important for Mustaqeem as his journey of success has been full of difficulties.

Mustaqeem’s parents worked hard to gave him the jewel of higher education. Mustaqeem’s father was a porter and his mother managed her son’s education by sewing & running the household.

Mustaqeem started his early education from ZP urdu medium School. Mustaqeem Passed 10th and 12th from Anglo-Urdu High School. Later completed his BUMS degree in 2017 from Jamia Akkalkuwa and was topper of the Maharashtra Health University in two subjects.

Musaqeem started his own clinic to ease the burden of financial problems to give comfort his parents. Mustaqeem told, I got an opportunity to serve the people, enthusiastically I practice for one year,but despite this I never feel satisfaction, though i help lots of poor people. I started preparing for PG entrance with passion and to do something more got admission in National Institute of Unani Medicine, Bangalore on the basis of very good All India Rank.

Thoughts of preparing competitive exams comes in my mind when I am in 2nd year of my Medical PG at Banglore. As soon as I finished PG, I started preparing for civil services. I joined Aligad Muslim University (RCA) after qualifying interview but due to some problems I had to come back to my home town.

In an exclusive conversation Dr Mustaqeem Pathan further said, I started self-study again while staying at home. Appeared the prelim exam of UPSC but could not get success with due to few marks only.

Later I moved to Hamdard RCA, Delhi, after discussion to Deputy Director of JHRCA in Hamdard, I joined Liaquat Sahibs private coaching in Batla House Delhi, where i am preparing for the last 7 months. It was from here that I successfully cleared the stages of Asst. Professors exams and the CCRUM exam.

I would like to attribute my success to my parents especially my dear father who passed away a few years ago. It is the result of their hard work that I have reached on this place today.

Interview by,
Akhlaqur Sk, / Career Counsellor, Mumbai / 9967329370 / sakhlaque2@gmail.com

source: http://www.salaampeople.com / Salaam People / Home> Community Round Up / by Akhlaqur Sk

Mumbai, MAHARASHTRA :

Dr Syed Ahmad Iqbal founder Chancellor Halima Aziz University, Manipur & Goodwill Ambassador Indo Arab Society Mumbai Attended as Guest of Honour Research Book on History of Khanqah Peer Damaria, Bhagalpur,Bihar& Quarterly Magazine Sada-E-Tasawuf in Urdu Language Release function held at Khanqah Peer Damaria,Khalifa Bagh on Wednesday,18th June 2025.

On this Special Occasion Sajjada Nasheen of Khanqah Peer Damaria Syed Shah Fakhre Alam Hasan Mazahari Presided over the function .

Cross section of the Society including Research Scholars, Historians, Educationist and Journalists attended the function and appreciated the welfare Works and Movement and Message for National Integration, communal Harmony, Love and Peace among the Communities from Khangah Peer Damaria, Khalifa Bagh, Bhagalpur.

source: http://www.salaampeople.com / Salaam People / Home> Community Round Up / by Salaam People National Desk

Mumbai, MAHARASHTRA :

Dr. Sabir Jamal Sayed call him a dynamic entrepreneur or multi-talented or humble, well the list goes on to describe this human being who has been so selfless towards the society.

Dr Sabir has a passion to serve the community and society. If you look at this simple looking man you might never know that he is an Information Technology Consultant and IT Skill development trainer.

Dr. Sayed also works as Professor at a Business School and also goes as a visiting faculty in other Schools to teach Marketing Management, Information Technology and Digital Marketing to the students under-going Masters In Business Management Program.

In order to give back to the society and to full fill this passion he has been onboard with many Educational and Charitable organizations where he has displayed beautifully his sense of social and moral responsibility by serving the poor and needy at the time of crisis. He is  Vice President at Mumbai Central Residents and Businessmen Association, Managing Committee member Kumbharwada Welfare Trust.

He has also worked in the area of Encouraging Moderate Voices and countering violent extremism online for which he has been selected for  the International Visitors Leadership Program IVLP USA in the year 2017.

Dr. Sabir Sayed is also an officially trained interfaith dialog facilitator. Over and above all this he is Computer Engineer graduated from Birla Institute of Technology and Science Pilani, He has also completed his MBA in Marketing and Ph.D. in digital marketing from University of Mumbai. His entrepreneurial debuts are M/s NexGen Marketing . He is associated in the capacity of Director Computer center with Anjuman-I-Islam and Pir Makhdum Saheb Charitable Trust.

Some social activities under the various NGO are as follows :

Talent, Drawing, Drama and other competitions are held at BMC Schools…
Distributing Cooked Food, Ration, Masks and Sanitizers etc.

During Ratnagiri Flood, They collected three tempos loaded with Clothes, Utensils.

Very often they help the Old age and Widow home people with Food, Gifts, snacks and sweets. At the time of Eid-e-Milad un Nabi they made it a point to distribute snacks and water to the police and other citizens present in the procession.

Organizing election awareness campaign, medical and documentation camps.

Distributing walkers, cycle and other instruments to handicap.

In Ramadan they distribute Ration, Iftari and Eid food packets.

Taking old age people and Yateem (orphan) children for picnic or Dinner to Islam Gymkhana. Organizing Career guidance, education and Job fairs.

Organized Diabietic patients camp.

Organizing Make-up, Cooking and Mehndi classes for the underprivilege children.

Sent Rakhi and National flag to soldiers at border on Raksha Bandhan and Independence day.

Help patients get medicines specially for cancer they also organise Diwali events and the list goes on.

source: http://www.salaampeople.com / Salaam People / Home> My Profile

INDIA :

In today’s edition, we will have a look at the most prominent Muslim leaders India has ever seen. Their work has not just been incredible but also commendable. They have been a guide, a mentor and a role model for many Indians.

Badruddin Ajmal

Famous For: Good Speaker

Based: North East India 

An influential figure in Indian politics rose to prominence as the founder of the All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF). Born in Assam, India, Ajmal pursued education in Islamic studies and eventually entered politics. His party, AIUDF, gained traction by advocating for the rights of Muslims and marginalized communities in Assam. However, Ajmal’s political career has been marred by controversies, including allegations of polarizing politics and accusations of fostering religious tensions. Despite criticism, Ajmal has remained a significant figure in Assam’s political landscape, navigating the complex socio-political dynamics of the region with both supporters and detractors.

Asaduddin Owaisi

Famous For: Controversial Speeches

Based: South India, Hyderabad

A prominent Indian politician, leads the All India Majlis-e-Ittehad-ul-Muslimeen (AIMIM), a party focused on representing the interests of Muslims in India. Hailing from a political family, Owaisi inherited leadership of the party from his father. He is known for his assertive stance on minority rights and secularism, often challenging mainstream political narratives. Owaisi’s speeches and actions have stirred debate, with some lauding his advocacy for marginalized communities while others criticize him for alleged sectarianism. Despite the controversy, Owaisi has expanded AIMIM’s influence beyond its stronghold in Hyderabad, shaping the discourse on minority representation in Indian politics.

Shazia Ilmi

Famous For: Good Spokesperson

Based: North India,Delhi

A notable figure in Indian politics gained prominence for her involvement in the anti-corruption movement led by Anna Hazare and Arvind Kejriwal. Initially associated with the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), she later joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in 2014. Ilmi is recognized for her vocal advocacy on various social and political issues, particularly women’s empowerment and minority rights. Despite facing criticism and controversies, including allegations of opportunism, her contributions to political discourse in India have been significant. Ilmi’s journey reflects the complexities and challenges of navigating the Indian political landscape while striving to enact positive change.

Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi

Famous For: Fire Brand leader of BJP

Based: North India Delhi

A seasoned Indian politician has played a key role in various governmental capacities, particularly within the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Rising from grassroots activism, Naqvi’s tenure includes serving as Minister of Minority Affairs in the Indian government. He is known for his articulate advocacy on behalf of minority communities, emphasizing their socio-economic development and inclusion. Naqvi’s political career has been marked by a blend of administrative prowess and party loyalty, earning him respect within the BJP ranks. Despite occasional controversies, his steadfast commitment to representing minority interests has contributed to shaping policies aimed at fostering equitable growth and social cohesion.

Shahnawaz Hussain

Famous For: Good Spokesperson

Based: North India Bihar

A prominent Indian politician has been a notable figure in the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), serving in various roles including as a Member of Parliament and a Minister of State. Rising from humble beginnings, Hussain’s political journey exemplifies determination and perseverance. Known for his eloquence and charisma, he has been a vocal advocate for the BJP’s policies and initiatives, often serving as a spokesperson for the party. Hussain’s contributions to Indian politics extend beyond his official duties, as he continues to engage with diverse communities and promote the BJP’s vision for inclusive development and national progress.

Najma Heptulla

Famous For: Good Governce Senior Muslim Female Political leader 

Based: North India Delhi

She is a seasoned Indian politician who has held several prominent positions in government and politics. She has served as a Member of Parliament in both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha and held ministerial portfolios such as Minister of State for Ministry of Women and Child Development. Heptulla’s career spans decades, and she is known for her advocacy on issues related to women’s empowerment, minority rights, and education. Her contributions have left a lasting impact on Indian politics, especially in the realms of social justice and gender equality.

Mehbooba Mufti

Famous For: Controversial Statement

Based: Jammu and Kashmir

A prominent figure in Indian politics, has played a significant role in Jammu and Kashmir’s political landscape. She served as the first female Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, leading the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). Mufti’s political career has been marked by efforts to bridge the gap between the region’s diverse communities and advocate for dialogue and reconciliation. However, her tenure faced challenges, including periods of unrest and controversy. Despite setbacks, Mufti remains a prominent voice in Kashmiri politics, continuing to strive for peace, democracy, and the rights of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

Farooq Abdullah

Famous For : Outspoken Nature’ and Controversial Speech

Based: Srinagar Jammu and Kashmir

A veteran Indian politician who has been a prominent figure in Jammu and Kashmir’s political landscape for decades. He has served as Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir multiple times and represented the region in the Indian Parliament. Abdullah’s political career is characterized by his advocacy for Kashmiri rights and autonomy within the Indian Union. Despite facing periods of political adversity and controversy, he remains a respected leader among Kashmiris. Abdullah’s commitment to the region’s socio-political issues and his efforts to navigate the complex dynamics of Kashmiri politics have cemented his legacy as a stalwart figure in Indian politics.

Ghulam Nabi Azad

Famous For: soft-spoken

Based: Jammu and Kashmir
A seasoned Indian politician who has held prominent positions in government and politics. He has served as the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir and held various ministerial portfolios at the national level, including Health and Family Welfare, Civil Aviation, and Parliamentary Affairs. Azad’s political career spans decades, marked by his dedication to public service and his efforts to address socio-economic challenges, particularly in Jammu and Kashmir. He is known for his articulate advocacy and bipartisan approach, earning respect across party lines. Azad’s contributions to Indian politics have left a lasting impact on governance and policy-making processes.

source: http://www.salaampeople.com / Salaam People / Home> Top Famous / by Huma M Rizvi

INDIA :

From Syed Akbaruddin’s diplomacy at the UN to Aamir Subhani’s historic role as Bihar’s first Muslim Chief Secretary, these officers have been pivotal in promoting social justice, development, and India’s image worldwide

New Delhi :

Since independence, India’s administrative officers have played a key role in the country’s development and its place on the world stage. Among them, Muslim officers have made remarkable contributions, often overcoming challenges to serve the nation with dedication. Their achievements provide much-needed inspiration, especially for Indian Muslims, highlighting their important role in national progress and unity.

Every year, only about three to five percent of candidates succeed in the highly competitive UPSC examination. Many young Muslim officers like Aamir Subhani and Shah Faisal have made history by topping this exam. Their dedication and service remain a source of pride for the Muslim community and the country as a whole.

The Sachar Committee’s comprehensive survey of the economic condition of Muslims, led by Syed Zafar Mahmood, stands as a landmark effort to bring attention to the community’s challenges and needs. Muslim officers continue to represent India strongly, both at home and abroad, contributing to a stronger, fairer nation.

Here are ten prominent Muslim officers whose work has been vital in shaping India’s all-round development, social justice, and national unity.

1. Syed Akbaruddin

A veteran diplomat and 1985-batch Indian Foreign Service officer, Syed Akbaruddin served as India’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations from 2016 to 2020. His role in advancing India’s global diplomacy, including efforts to designate Masood Azhar as a global terrorist, earned widespread respect. Akbaruddin also strengthened climate initiatives like the ‘Gandhi Solar Park’ and served as the Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson. His clear and balanced communication raised India’s voice internationally. He is an expert on West Asian affairs and continues to contribute as Dean of the Kotlia School of Public Policy.

2. Dr SY Qureshi

As the 17th Chief Election Commissioner of India (2010-2012), Dr Qureshi was the first Muslim to hold this post, strengthening Indian democracy’s transparency. A 1971 IAS officer, he also led the National AIDS Control Organisation and the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports. Under his leadership, the ‘Universities Talk AIDS’ campaign became India’s largest HIV/AIDS awareness effort. Dr Qureshi is a respected author and mentor, recognised among the 100 most influential Indians by The Indian Express.

3. Najeeb Jung

A 1973-batch IAS officer from Madhya Pradesh, Najeeb Jung served as Vice Chancellor of Jamia Millia Islamia and Lieutenant Governor of Delhi. With academic roots from St Stephen’s College and the London School of Economics, Jung has contributed to administration, energy policy, and education reforms. His reports and articles focus on social justice and effective governance.

4. Javed Usmani

Known for his honesty and vision, 1978-batch IAS officer Javed Usmani has served as Principal Secretary to the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister and Chief Secretary of the state. A Harvard graduate, he worked with the Ministry of Commerce, Planning Commission, and World Bank. His tenure saw the rise of e-governance and better project monitoring in Uttar Pradesh, earning him respect for his dedication to public service.

5. Dr Syed Zafar Mahmood

Dr Mahmood, a former Indian Civil Service officer, led the Sachar Committee, producing a historic report on the social and economic condition of Muslims in India. He founded the Zakat Foundation of India, working for education, health, and rehabilitation of the underprivileged. He also promotes interfaith dialogue and educational empowerment, shaping social justice efforts.

6. Salman Haider

A former Foreign Secretary, Salman Haider represented India with distinction internationally. He was India’s Ambassador to China and High Commissioner to the United Kingdom. His leadership roles in the Ministry of External Affairs helped strengthen India’s diplomatic relations. Educated at Sherwood College, St Stephen’s, and Cambridge, Haider’s career is a beacon of Indian Muslim excellence.

7. Dr Ausaf Saeed

Dr Saeed, a 1989-batch IFS officer, raised India-Saudi Arabia relations, helping establish the Strategic Partnership Council. As Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Yemen, and Seychelles, he advanced India’s cultural diplomacy and international cooperation. His role in getting yoga recognised officially in Saudi Arabia highlights his contribution beyond traditional diplomacy.

8. Talmiz Ahmed

A 1974-batch IFS officer, Ahmed’s expertise on West Asian affairs guided India’s policy for decades. He served as Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Oman, and the UAE, receiving Saudi Arabia’s King Abdulaziz Medal for his service. Ahmed has been central in maintaining India’s close ties with Gulf countries.

9. Aamir Subhani

The first Muslim Chief Secretary of Bihar and 1987 UPSC topper, Aamir Subhani is a key figure in Bihar’s administration. His leadership and service as Chairman of the Bihar Electricity Regulatory Commission showcase the growing presence of Indian Muslims in high administrative posts, breaking barriers and fostering progress.

10. Wajahat Habibullah

Wajahat Habibullah, a 1968-batch IAS officer, served as Chief Information Commissioner and Divisional Commissioner of Kashmir during turbulent times. His courageous leadership was recognised with the Jammu and Kashmir Governor’s Gold Medal and the Rajiv Gandhi Secularism Award. His writings on Kashmir have become important references for understanding the region’s politics.

Voices from the Community

Speaking about these officers, community leader Dr. Imran Siddiqui said, “These Muslim officers have shown that hard work, dedication and integrity know no religion. They are shining examples for our youth and proof that Indian Muslims are integral to the nation’s growth.”

Educationist and social activist Shabana Khan added, “The success of these officers counters stereotypes and highlights the positive role Indian Muslims play in administration and governance.”

The achievements of these officers demonstrate the Indian Muslim community’s potential and contribution to national development. Their service has not only helped India grow stronger but also challenged communal biases and misinformation. It is vital to recognise and celebrate their efforts as a sign of unity and shared progress.

Indian Muslim administrative officers have consistently risen to the challenges of governance and diplomacy, leaving a lasting impact on India’s development and global image. Their stories inspire new generations to serve the nation with pride and dedication, proving that India’s strength lies in its diversity and inclusiveness.

source: http://www.clarionindia.net / Clarion India / Home> Editor’s Pick >Indian Muslims / by Mohammad Bin Ismail / August 10th, 2025