Tag Archives: Positive Stories of Muslims of India

Vision 2026 Scholar Achieves Success in West Bengal Judicial Service Examination

Education - Gold Medallists, Toppers, Merits, Achievers (wef. June 12th, 2023), , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Jangipur (Murshidabad District), WEST BENGAL :

New Delhi “

Vision 2026 Scholarship Department is elated to announce the remarkable achievement of its scholar, Rahul SK, who has secured 33rd rank in the West Bengal Judicial Service Examination. This prestigious exam, conducted by the West Bengal Public Service Commission (WBPSC), is a significant step in Rahul’s path towards a judicial career.

Rahul SK, a resident of Jangipur in the Murshidabad district, is the son of Hasibul SK, a dedicated mason working as a daily wage laborer. Despite facing financial hardships, Rahul’s unwavering dedication and perseverance have led him to this notable success.

Abdul Karim, the head of Vision 2026 Scholarship Department, commended Rahul’s hard work and determination. Rahul completed his Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Laws (BA. LLB.) from Aligarh Muslim University in 2018 and went on to earn a Master of Laws (LL.M.) from the Central University of Punjab in 2020. Currently, he is pursuing a Ph.D. and has qualified for the Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) in Law from the same university.

The Vision 2026 Scholarship Department provided crucial support to Rahul during his postgraduate studies, which played a pivotal role in his academic and professional journey.

The results of the highly competitive West Bengal Judicial Service Examination were announced on May 14, marking a significant milestone in Rahul’s career. His achievement stands as a testament to his resilience and the effective support of Vision 2026.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Latest News> Markers of Excellence / by Radiance News Bureau / May 18th, 2024

Prof Shabina Nishat Omar: A celebrity academician-administrator of West Bengal

Education, Leaders, Women/Girls(since May26-2021), , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

WEST BENGAL :

Professor Shabina Nishat Omar

In the broad landscape of society, administration, education, and culture in West Bengal, the progress of Muslim women has ushered in a new chapter today. Overcoming long-standing social barriers, superstition, and gender-based discrimination, they are now taking positions of leadership. One of the brightest faces of this transformation is Professor Shabina Nishat Omar, whose life journey stands as a remarkable example of women’s self-empowerment in modern society.

Active in the academic world for more than 25 years, Prof Omar is not only an educator but also a skilled administrator, inspiring speaker, and fluent multilingual presenter.

She is currently serving as Officer on Special Duty (OSD) in the Directorate of Higher Education under the Government of West Bengal.

Professor Shabina Nishat Omar – the woman of substance

At the same time, her academic leadership as Head of the English Department at Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose College is equally commendable.

An important chapter of her professional career was her 19 years of teaching at Milli Al-Ameen College for Women, as Principal-in-Charge for 15 years.

During this time, she played a major role in transforming the institution into a modern, well-organized, and student-friendly campus.

Beyond administrative excellence, Professor Omar’s multidimensional activities have given her a distinct identity. She is a skilled debater, eloquent speaker, and outstanding reciter, through which she has expressed her views on various national and international platforms.

Professor Shabina Nishat Omar (Third from left) at a College function

Her active involvement in promoting women’s empowerment, digital education, gender studies, and inclusive education has established her as an influential thinker in contemporary society.

Her presence in seminars, workshops, and academic platforms carries a powerful message for the younger generation—that education is not merely a profession, but one of the strongest tools for social transformation. As a speaker and trainer, she emphasizes leadership development, women’s self-reliance, language proficiency, and strategies to address modern social challenges.

In recognition of her contributions, she has received several honours, including the Damini SHE Award and the Disrupt Women’s Leadership Award.

Her nomination to the International Visitor Leadership Program of the United States Department of State further strengthened the international recognition of her work.

At present, she is also actively involved in several administrative and academic responsibilities associated with University of Calcutta.

Professor Shabina Nishat Omar

As Bursar and Internship Nodal Officer at the college level, her initiatives in connecting students with practical education are especially noteworthy.

The journey of Professor Shabina Nishat Omar is not merely a story of personal success; it is a blueprint of women’s self-establishment in modern society. Personalities like her prove that with the right vision, dedication to education, and commitment to society, a woman not only creates her own place but also opens the path for others.

Her presence on seminar stages is not just participation as a speaker—it is a source of inspiration, where a woman firmly establishes her position in modern society through knowledge, experience, and leadership.

source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Success Story / by Shompi Chakraborty Purkayas / June 09th , 2026

Shibli College Introduces Shibli RCA: Free IAS-IPS Coaching Initiative

Community Involvement / Social Issues, Education, Education- Excellence, Coaching, Training, Tutorials (wef. Feb 09th, 2024), , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Azamgarh, UTTAR PRADESH :

Shibli College in Azamgarh has launched a groundbreaking initiative known as the Shibli Residential Coaching Academy (Shibli RCA), offering free coaching for the prestigious IAS-IPS examinations. This program aims to empower aspiring civil servants by providing not only coaching but also complimentary accommodation, meals, and access to library facilities.

The Shibli RCA program stands out as a beacon of hope for individuals with aspirations of serving the nation but lack the financial means to pursue professional coaching. By eliminating financial barriers, the initiative ensures that talent and dedication, rather than economic status, become the primary determinants of success in civil services examinations.

Prospective students are invited to apply to Shibli RCA through a simple admission process, where their aptitude and dedication are assessed. This inclusive approach aims to identify and nurture talent from diverse socio-economic backgrounds, fostering a diverse and inclusive learning environment.

The initiative by Shibli College underscores its commitment to academic excellence and social empowerment, striving to shape a generation of competent and compassionate civil servants poised to make meaningful contributions to society.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Education> Focus> Social Service / by Radiance News Bureau / May 13th, 2024

Taufiq Mohammad who saved lives during 26/11, says hang Rana

Amazing Feats, Community Involvement / Social Issues, Heroes / Heroines - Ordinary Daily Life Citizens, Uniquely Indian - Inter Faith (wef. February 08th, 2023), , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Mumbai, MAHARASHTRA :

Mohammad Toufiq (Picture grabbed from ANI’s video posted on X)

When Pakistani terrorists targeted Nariman House, Cama Hospital, Taj Hotel, Oberoi Hotel, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, and Leopold Cafe on 11 November, 20 16 years ago, killing 166 people, Mohammad Taufiq Sheikh was one of the lucky persons to have narrowly missed the terrorists’ bullet.

Now famous as Chotu Chaiwala, as he continues to sell tea in front of St. George Hospital, he gets into a pensive mood at the mention of Tahawwur Rana, one of the key planners of the attack who has been extradited to India from the US to face trial.

Toufiq saved many lives as he was present at the Railway station on that fateful day.

Recently, on knowing that Tahawvur Rana was brought to India after 16 years, he said, “He should not be given any relief; instead, hang him.”

Taufiq Mohammad, an eyewitness to the 26/11 attack, looked upset. He said, “The government should not him any facility as he is the main culprit of 26/11. He is not a hero; he is a beast. In the attack, someone’s mother, sister, brother, or father was killed. He should not be shown mercy and should be lodged in a separate cell, the government should take strict action against him. The government should hang this terrorist within 15 days.”

Taufiq said, “The government should make a separate law to take action against terrorists. Pakistan still gives shelter to terrorists as a result the common people also suffer. Punish Rana so severely that the rest of the terrorists start trembling with fear.”

A terrorist has no caste or religion. He should only be called a terrorist, Taufiq says.

“Rana and I have the same religion. Rana, in the name of religion, helped those people who fired bullets at innocent people. Islam does not teach to kill anyone. Islam gives the message of peace and love. Shedding blood in the name of religion is not the teaching of religion. We are proud to be Indian Muslims. Every terrorist should get severe punishment.”

Pakistani terrorists were killing people mercilessly. The entire station was silent. People were saving their lives. No one was there to help them. Talking about that time, Taufiq says, “Seeing the guns with them, I first thought they were commandos. But they were killing people mercilessly. They were not humans, they were monsters. One of them (Kasab) was coming towards me. He abused me. I thought I would be killed too.”

He further says, “The glass of doors and windows were broken due to the firing. The entire station was filled with blood. People were struggling to save their lives. Many people were injured. I wanted to save the injured people. I put the injured people on a cart and took them to St. George Hospital and Byculla Railway Hospital. In this way, many people’s lives were saved.”

This incident was terrifying, but Taufiq handled the situation with courage. Keeping humanity at the top, he saved people’s lives without looking at caste or religion. For this, he was given 27 rewards and some financial help.

Taufiq says, “On the night of 26/11, I went to the railway station to collect money for tea. There were more than 4000 people there. There was a rush to buy tickets, so the ticket master asked me to collect the money after a while. I stood outside the station. I still remember, that day a cricket match between India and England was going on. After a while, suddenly I heard a loud firecracker-like sound from inside the station.”Toufiq continues to sell chai at the same place.

source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Success-Story / by Fazal Pathan, Mumbai / April 16th, 2025

Dr. Shakila Banu N: A Pillar of Empowerment and Compassion in Education and Social Welfare

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

Bengaluru, KARNATAKA :

Dr. Shakila Banu N, a stalwart in the field of education, boasting over three decades of experience, is not only shaping young minds but also uplifting the marginalized through her altruistic endeavors. In her role as Principal at Malnad English School in Rajivnagar, Bengaluru, she exemplifies the essence of compassionate leadership.

Partnering with Major Bari’s team, Dr. Shakila Banu extends a lifeline to orphaned children, ensuring they not only receive an education but also have the necessary resources for their holistic development. From covering school fees to providing basic essentials like school bags, water bottles, uniforms, shoes, and even mattresses, she leaves no stone unturned in her mission to provide a nurturing environment for these vulnerable youths. Her commitment extends beyond the classroom, as she also extends support to widows and their families, offering monthly groceries and special provisions for festive occasions like Eid.

Dr. Banu’s compassion extends further to elderly widows, whom she ensures receive regular access to vital medications, underscoring her holistic approach to community welfare. Her tireless efforts serve as a beacon of hope, inspiring others to join in the noble pursuit of serving the less fortunate. Through her selfless dedication, Dr. Banu sets a shining example of empathy and altruism, enriching the lives of those she touches and leaving an indelible mark on her community.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Focus> Social Service / by Muarrah Nisar / May 09th, 2024

Moinul Haque provides healthcare, education to 300 brick kiln workers’ families

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Chokapara-Naoda Village (Bilashipara subdivision, Dhubri District), ASSAM :

Moinul Haque at his brick kiln

Moinul Haque of village Bilashipara in Dhubri district of western Assam once lived in appalling poverty and even had to go hungry on many days. Having worked his way to a better life, this man in his late forties is now providing livelihood to 300 families but also ensuring they get basic amenities of life.

Owner of a brick kiln that he set up to address acute poverty in village Takimari, Ranigunj, a Muslim village of Assam

Not only he pays wages to his workers, but he also provides them with the basic facilities of education and health, and he also ensures drinking water, healthcare, and education for the children of brick kiln workers.

In a conversation with Awaz -The Voice, the soft-spoken Moinul Haque alias Baltuk said that as a child he had to work hard to survive.

Brick Kiln owned by Moinul Haque

He was born in Chokapara-Naoda, a backward village in the Lakshiganj area of the Bilashipara subdivision. His father, Sabed Ali, a fish trader, and his mother, Manuwara Bibi, a domestic help, had many dreams for their children yet no means to fulfill them.

Moinul’s parents enrolled him in a nearby government primary school even as the sustenance of a family comprising two sons and four daughters was getting difficult for  Sabed Ali.

As luck would have it, Sabed Ali’s health started falling.

“It was difficult for us to support a family of eight and take care of my father. As a result, sometimes we had to go to sleep hungry. One day, I finally dropped out of school due to poverty. I was eight years old.

“I was thinking about how I could support my family. I started baking papad at the street corners and selling them. After making some money, I started selling betel nuts (Tamol) along with papad on a table perched on the roadside,” he said.

 Within 3-4 years, he expanded his small shop into a grocery store.

Moinul was just beginning to flourish in his trade when his father, Sabed Ali became paralyzed. Now he got worried about the fate of his family.

However, Moinul kept his focus on business and started trading fish.

An under-construction building in which Moinul Haque is involved in

He bought fish from Hatipota, Tilapara, Shalkocha, and other areas riding an old bicycle in the wee hours of the day. He sold it in Bilashipara and Beltali markets.

He did well and after some time, he expanded trading to sand, stone chips, and timber.

 At the age of 20, Moinul got married.

He managed to marry all his sisters within five years. He also worked as an associate of various construction contractors. However, his hunger for success did not end there.

Alongside his business, he also volunteered to get associated with various social activities. He realized that the people of western Assam, especially the Muslims, were backward in many facets of life.

He set up a brick kiln at His enterprise has provided livelihood to about 300 families in the area. Most of these families are economically backward Muslims.

He also provided these families with basic facilities like healthcare, hygienic drinking water, and education.

source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Stories / by Malati Sarmar, Bilashipara / March 21st, 2023

Empowering Change: The Journey of Zohra Banu

Leadership : IAS, IFS, IPS, IRS, IFoS, IAAS (incl.) all UPSC Services (wef. 18 June 2026), Women/Girls(since May26-2021), , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Calicut, KERALA / ANDAMAN & NICOBAR ISLANDS :

In an exclusive interview, with Sajida A Zubair , an educator, counselor, script-writer, voice-over artist and Radiance Correspondent for Andaman and Nicobar Islands, we delve into the inspiring journey of Zohra Banu, who recently achieved the remarkable feat of securing the 469th All India Rank (AIR) in the UPSC examinations.

Hailing from the remote Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Zohra’s story is one of determination, courage, and unwavering commitment to service. From her humble beginnings at Ummat Public School to her pursuit of Engineering in computer science at Andhra University, her educational background has molded her into the resilient and driven individual she is today. Transitioning from a successful corporate career to civil services, Zohra’s decision reflects her deep-seated desire to make a meaningful contribution to society. Let’s uncover the motivations, challenges, and aspirations of this inspiring young woman on her journey to serve the nation.

SZ:  Could you share with us how your educational background and experiences have influenced your personality and career choices?

ZB: Certainly. My educational journey has played a significant role in shaping who I am today. The patience and work ethic instilled by my teachers during my school years, coupled with the resilience learned during my university days, have been instrumental in my career choices. Additionally, my corporate experience highlighted the importance of values, ultimately leading me to pursue a career dedicated to serving society.

SZ: Moving from the Andaman and Nicobar Islands to a more competitive environment must have been quite a challenge. How did this transition affect you and your approach to academics?

ZB: Indeed, it was a significant transition. Initially, I felt lost and experienced a dip in self-confidence. However, I embraced the challenge and realized that hard work was the key to success. This experience taught me the importance of consistent effort and resilience in the face of adversity.

SZ: What motivated you to pursue the UPSC exams, considering the shift from a successful corporate career?

ZB: Interestingly, UPSC was not a childhood dream for me. It was witnessing my roommate’s dedication to the exams that sparked my curiosity. My primary motivation has always been to contribute to society, and I saw the UPSC exams as an opportunity to do just that, aligning more closely with my values and aspirations.

SZ: It’s inspiring to hear about your dedication to service. As a Muslim woman from Calicut in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, did you face any challenges in pursuing your dreams, and how did your parents’ support help you overcome them?

ZB: While challenges certainly existed, I am grateful for the unwavering support of my parents. Despite societal pressures and stereotypes, my parents encouraged me to pursue my aspirations, emphasizing that the sky was the limit. Their support and belief in me were invaluable in overcoming any obstacles I encountered along the way.

SZ: Faith often plays a significant role in navigating challenges. How has your relationship with your faith helped you during your journey?

ZB: Faith has been a pillar of strength for me throughout my journey. Connecting with a Higher Power provided me with solace during challenging times, enabling me to face setbacks with hopefulness and perseverance. It has been a source of comfort and guidance, guiding me through both the highs and lows of my academic and UPSC journey.

SZ: Your commitment to serving society is truly commendable. How do you plan to advocate for the rights and interests of marginalized communities, especially in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands?

ZB: I am deeply committed to advocating for the rights of marginalized communities, particularly children, women, and tribals. If given the opportunity, I would work tirelessly to address their grievances and ensure their voices are heard. Additionally, I aim to enhance the visibility of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands on the global stage, shedding light on the unique challenges faced by its diverse communities.

SZ: Finally, what message would you like to convey to our readers?

ZB: I would like to express my gratitude to my parents for their unwavering support and encouragement. Their belief in me has been my driving force throughout my journey. To all the parents out there, I urge you to recognize and nurture the potential of your children, regardless of societal pressures or expectations. Believe in them, support them, and watch them soar.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Focus> Markers of Excellence / by Sajida A Zubair / May 03rd, 2024

Muslims remember Hafiz Manzoor as a leader who worked for youth

Community Involvement / Social Issues, Leaders, , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Mumbai , Pune / MAHARASHTRA :

Hafiz Manzoor, the Maharashtra Amir (head), Tablighi Jamaat,

Mumbai :

The passing of Hafiz Manzoor, the Maharashtra Amir (head) of the global Islamic reformist movement Tablighi Jamaat, is being mourned as a profound loss for the entire Muslim community. He had dedicated his life to the service of the faith, for the betterment of society, and the service of humanity.

Hafiz Manzoor, who was in his nineties. was laid to rest at the Nigdi cemetery in Pimpri-Chinchwad with thousands of his followers attending the burial on Monday night.

Hafiz Manzoor was active till the very last. He had arrived in Pune on Sunday night and offered his pre-dawn Tahajjud and Fajr prayers.

Following the Fajr prayers, he suddenly felt dizzy inside the mosque where he lived.

He was rushed to the hospital for treatment, where the doctors declared him dead. but was declared dead upon arrival. According to his close associates, he fasted on Mondays and Thursdays, and he was fasting on the day of his death.

Hafiz Manzoor always inspired the youth to acquire a good education, cultivate excellent morals, and walk on the righteous path. His hard work, simplicity, concern for the Ummah, and his unique ability to connect people will always be remembered.

Maulana Saad, the Indian head of the Tablighi Jamaat, and his son specially attended the funeral to pay their last respects. Hafiz Manzoor, who was in his 90s, passed away yesterday (May 18) in Pune. His passing has sent a wave of mourning across the Muslim community in Maharashtra.

Staying away from fame and any kind of ostentation, he dedicated his entire life to social reform and religious service.

Thousands of his followers from all over the country arrived in Pune on Monday night. His mortal remains were kept at the Fatima Masjid for people to pay their final respects.

The mourners moved in complete discipline and peace from the mosque to the cemetery, a true way to pay tribute to a man of religion whose life was an epitome of simplicity.

Residing at the Fatima Masjid in Pune, he served the religion and society for several decades. He worked tirelessly throughout his life to keep the youth away from addiction and to raise awareness against the dowry system in society.

He always strongly advocated for marriages and other ceremonies to be conducted with utmost simplicity. His passing is seen as a massive loss to the community, with many expressing the sentiment of losing a true guiding light.

For the uninitiated, Tablighi Jamaat is a global Sunni Islamic reformist and spiritual movement. The movement was started in 1926 by Maulana Muhammad Ilyas Kandhlawi in the Mewat region of India.

The primary objective of this movement is to bring Muslims back to their fundamental religious values and teachings. They place heavy emphasis on offering regular prayers and living a simple life.

The group stays away from politics, social controversies, and publicity. Its members dedicate a specific number of days to travel from village to village and mosque to mosque, reminding their fellow Muslims to walk on the path of faith.

Within this movement, there is a head designated to guide a state or a country, who is referred to as the ‘Amir’. Hafiz Manzoor was the Amir of the Tablighi Jamaat for the state of Maharashtra.

source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Changemakers / by Aasha Khosa, ATV / May 21st, 2026

Ummeed Foundation hosts Muslim Samaj Pratibha Samman Samaroh

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

Chhabbra, RAJASTHAN :

Chhabra (Baran) :

Ummeed Foundation organized a Muslim Samaj Pratibha Samman Samaroh (Talent Recognition Ceremony) at Hillview Hotel here Sunday. The ceremony felicitated 90 meritorious students, government employees, new Huffaz (Quran memorizers), Ulama and other achievers from the Muslim community.

Hafiz Umair, a Divyang, Qualified NEET exam, Now Pursuing MBBS from Govt Medical College Kota, being felicitated

Presiding over the program, former College Principal Professor Dr. ID Khan shared his experiences, saying that after becoming a Hafiz-e-Quran, he became a Chemistry Professor. “No matter what the circumstances, we should not lose courage. We have to achieve our goals with determination,” he emphasized.

Earlier, the program commenced with Quran recitation by Hafiz Shakir.

President Yasin Khan and member Syed Khizar Ali said the event was organized to encourage and motivate the talented people of the community.


Chief Guest Saeed Ahmed felicitates Atif Hussain, who got admission in a Veterinary College

Chief guest Saeed Ahmed (Retd. RAS) said, “We should focus on the education of children from nursery onwards, not after 10th or 12th.”

He said unless we strengthen the foundation of children from the very beginning, our children will not be able to reach high positions. He emphasized the need to pay special attention to science and mathematics from the very beginning.

Tehsildar Manzoor Ali Diwan, Guest of Honor, called upon the audience to send their children to administrative services as much as possible. He motivated children to get more and more education and contribute to society.

Naib Tehsildar Mohammad Sadiq, Special Guest, said even if we have to go to China to get education, we should send our children. “Today’s era is of higher education; we should give our children quality education.”

Shahar Qazi Molana Izhar Hussain addressing the program

Shahar Qazi Maulana Izhar Hussain, another Special Guest, said, “We should focus on making our children good human beings along with making them doctors and engineers. No matter what position we get, we should remain honest and do our work honestly. Always keep in mind that Allah is watching us whether anyone sees us or not, and we will have to account for all our deeds on the Day of Judgment.”

Ataur Rahman (RSEB), yet another Special Guest, said, “We should focus on giving our children religious education along with modern education.”

Only Muslim Sanskrit Teacher in Chhabra Tehsil Shameem Bano, MA (Sanskrit) Gold Medalist, NET Qualified, being felicitated

At the end of the program, Maulana Arif Nadwi extended a vote of thanks while Professor Raheem Khan conducted the program.

Former District Congress President Nizamuddin Khan, Municipal Vice President Abrar Ahmed Siddiqui, and other dignitaries were also present at the program.

Ummeed Foundation members Shafiq Khan, Wasim Khan, Rizwan Khan, Shadab Mansoori, and Irfan Khan, along with other members, played a key role in making the program a success.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Latest News> Markers of Excellence / by Raheem Khan / March 12th, 2024

Who Is IPS Papiya Sultana? Meet West Bengal’s First Muslim Woman IPS Officer in the Spotlight

Leaders, Leadership : IAS, IFS, IPS, IRS, IFoS, IAAS (incl.) all UPSC Services (wef. 18 June 2026), Women/Girls(since May26-2021), , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Bauria (Howrah), WEST BENGAL :

IPS Sultana in Spotlight Again After Viral Video at Bengal CM Swearing-In. She attracted national attention in February 2024 when she was part of the team constituted to investigate allegations of atrocities against women in Sandeshkhali.

Kolkata: 

The 2015 batch IPS officer Papiya Sultana, the Superintendent of Police (SP) of Paschim Medinipur, is once again in the spotlight after a viral video from the swearing-in ceremony of Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari sparked intense discussion on social media.

The senior police officer, who previously drew attention during the Sandeshkhali controversy, is widely recognized as West Bengal’s first Muslim woman IPS officer and has built a distinguished career marked by academic excellence and trailblazing achievements.

Why Papiya Sultana Is in the News

Papiya Sultana has come under scrutiny after a video from the recent swearing-in ceremony appeared to show her remaining seated when Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived at the venue.

The footage has generated debate online, with critics questioning her conduct during the high-profile event. The incident has added to earlier controversies surrounding her role in the Sandeshkhali investigation.

Role in the Sandeshkhali Case

Papiya Sultana attracted national attention in February 2024 when she was part of the team constituted to investigate allegations of atrocities against women in Sandeshkhali.

During the inquiry, she faced criticism after reportedly asking complainants for documentary and medical evidence related to the allegations. Her handling of the case became a subject of political debate in West Bengal.

West Bengal’s First Muslim Woman IPS Officer

Papiya Sultana is regarded as the first Muslim woman from West Bengal to join the Indian Police Service.

She began her policing career by clearing the state police examination and later earned promotion to the IPS through the State Police Service quota.

IPS Batch and Current Posting

  • Name: Papiya Sultana
  • IPS Batch: 2015 (promoted from State Police Service)
  • Cadre: West Bengal
  • Current Posting: Superintendent of Police, Paschim Medinipur
  • Date of Birth: July 5, 1980

Early Life and Family Background

Born in Bauria in Howrah, Papiya Sultana grew up in a middle-class family that strongly supported education.

  • Father: Arjahan Haldar, an engineer
  • Mother: Salema Jehan, a teacher at a madrasa

Her parents encouraged her academic ambitions and career aspirations from an early age.

Impressive Academic Qualifications

Papiya Sultana is known for her exceptional educational achievements. Her qualifications reportedly include:

  • MBA
  • Master’s in Gender Development
  • LLB
  • LLM
  • Diplomas in Spanish and French

She has also pursued doctoral research in Women’s Studies at Jadavpur University.

Career Journey: From State Police (WBPS) to IPS

Papiya first joined the West Bengal Police Service in 2008 after clearing the examination on her first attempt. She began her career as a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DySP) in the West Bengal Police.

Her consistent performance led to her induction into the Indian Police Service as part of the 2015 select list.

Over the years, she has served in several important roles, including:

  • SP, Home Guard Organisation
  • Additional charge of Barrackpore 1st Battalion
  • Superintendent of Police, Paschim Medinipur

Personal Life

Papiya Sultana married software engineer Badrul Alam in 2006. She is a mother and has often spoken about drawing inspiration from Kiran Bedi, one of India’s most prominent police officers.

Her journey continues to inspire many young women, especially those aspiring to join the civil services.

Why Her Story Matters

From a small town in Howrah to becoming a pioneering IPS officer, Papiya Sultana’s journey reflects determination, academic excellence, and resilience. However, the criticism and controversies surrounding some of her actions have also kept her in the news for reasons that sparked public debate and dissatisfaction among sections of people.

Whether praised for her achievements or criticized for her handling of sensitive issues, she remains one of the most talked-about and influential women police officers in West Bengal.

source: http://www.indianmasterminds.com / Indian Masterminds / Home> Bureaucracy News> IPS> News / by Indian Masterminds Bureau / May 11th, 2026