Inside a century-old building overlooking the streets of south Mumbai, a quiet effort is underway to save rare Persian and Urdu translations of Indian scriptures, the last surviving records of the country’s multi-cultural past.
The Karimi Library, housed within the 152-year-old Anjuman-I-Islam institute near the iconic Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, has launched a restoration drive to rescue more than 32 sacred Hindu texts. These include the Mahabharat, Ramayan, Bhagavad Gita, and Shiv Puran, all printed between 1867 and 1896.
The library was established in 1898 after merchant Kazi Abdul Karimi Porbandari donated 4,500 valuable texts, and it was named after him. Padma Shri Dr Zahir Kazi, president of Anjuman-I-Islam, founded by Badruddin Tyabji in 1874, shared this history while speaking about the ongoing project.
The archive holds books, manuscripts, and newspapers in Sanskrit, English, Urdu, Persian, Marathi, Pashto, and Arabic, covering history, philosophy, theology, literature, and geography. It also features rare newspapers dating back to 1875, including the Jaipur Gazette, Ambala Gazette, and Cairo’s Al Kaira, alongside royal decrees from Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb.
“The books have become old and pages brittle. They need to be treated with special chemicals to weed out fungus and pests. Books that are not in good shape are pasted with special paper for preservation,” Kazi said.
A team of experts is handling the digitisation process, with pages being uploaded to Anjuman-I-Islam’s cloud account.
“These books reflect so much of tolerance. It is an eye-opener for Indians that the country’s heritage is very much there in this library,” Kazi said.
Library in-charge Mohammad Ghalib Mulla confirmed that more than 100,000 book pages and 70,000 pages from newspapers and periodicals have been digitised, leaving only 2,250 pages to complete the archiving project.
“The newspapers give details about the initial days of the freedom struggle, the social and political situation of those times, how journalism was, pro and anti-British,” Mulla said.
Several freedom fighters were part of Anjuman-I-Islam’s management, and the library witnessed many of their meetings, according to Kazi.
The library building is also undergoing renovation, with efforts to retain its original look and feel. “We intend to reopen the restored library by October 2, subject to completion of work. We also plan to host many national and international events in this library,” Kazi said.
source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Uncategorized / by Radiance News Bureau / August 31st, 2026
AI-generated image of Lal Mohammad Badshah and his volunteers
Every Sunday morning, a group of volunteers gathers on the banks of the Ganga in Bithoor, near Kanpur in Uttar Pradesh. Armed with bags and baskets, they pick up garbage, plastic waste, discarded offerings, and other debris from the river and its ghats.
Leading this weekly mission is Lal Mohammad Badshah, a man whose life has become synonymous with the protection of the sacred river. For the past 35 years, he has dedicated himself to keeping the Ganga clean. A Muslim by faith, Badshah gave up a well-paying government job, chose to remain unmarried, and devoted his life to serving the river he reveres as Mother Ganga. A few years ago, he even stopped wearing footwear as a mark of respect for the river.
Known locally as the “Guardian of the Ganga,” Lal Mohammad Badshah has broken religious stereotypes and emerged as a symbol of environmental conservation and communal harmony.
Bithoor occupies a special place in Hindu tradition. According to Sanatan beliefs, it is the birthplace of Luv and Kush, the sons of Lord Ram. It is also believed that Maharshi Valmiki composed the Ramayana here. The shrine of Mata Sita Ki Rasoi (Mother Sita’s Kitchen) continues to attract thousands of pilgrims and tourists from across the country.
The Ganga flows past 52 ghats in Bithoor, drawing a steady stream of devotees who come to take a holy dip in its waters. It is this sacred landscape that has become the centre of Lal Mohammad Badshah’s devotion and life’s work.
Sharing his journey with Awaz-The Voice, Badshah said, “I had a secure and well-paying job at a government fertiliser plant. Life was comfortable. But my attachment and reverence for Maa Ganga grew so strong that I decided to leave everything behind and dedicate my life to her service.”
After resigning from his job, he committed himself fully to the cleanliness and protection of the river.
To carry forward his mission, Badshah formed the Ganga Suraksha Dal (Ganga Protection Squad), a group of eight to ten local volunteers. Every Sunday, members of the squad gather at the ghats and undertake extensive cleanliness drives.
As news of their efforts spread, people from neighbouring districts, including Unnao, began joining the campaign. What started as a small initiative has gradually evolved into a community movement.
The group’s work extends beyond cleaning the river and its banks. Members also keep a vigil against poachers and work to protect fish and other aquatic life in the Ganga.
Despite the growing support, Lal Mohammad Badshah has never accepted donations for his mission.
A practising Muslim who is often seen wearing a skullcap, Badshah earns his livelihood by operating a small tourist boat on the Ganga. After leaving his government job, he turned to ferrying pilgrims and visitors along the river.
His boat, furnished with mattresses and cushions, offers tourists a comfortable ride while introducing them to the spiritual and historical significance of Bithoor. The modest income from these rides sustains both his personal needs and his environmental campaign.
Visitors are often surprised to hear him greet people with “Ganga Maiya Ki Jai” (Hail Mother Ganga).
When asked how fellow Muslims reacted to his devotion to the river, Badshah replied, “Faith and devotion are matters of personal conviction. I have a spiritual connection with the Ganga.”
He recalls that in the beginning, some people from his community mocked him and questioned his actions. However, as they witnessed his sincerity, selflessness, and dedication, attitudes began to change.
“Today,” he says, “people respect the work we are doing. Service to humanity and nature is above all divisions.”
Over the years, Badshah’s story has gained widespread attention on social media, where thousands of people have praised his commitment and spirit of service.
Among the many tributes, social media user F.S. Parmar described him as a “King of Kings.” Manoj Kumar wrote that while water cleanses the body, truth purifies the mind, knowledge refines the intellect, and righteousness elevates the soul.
Ashish Sharma commented that true strength lies in devotion and service, while Rajendra Chauhan described Badshah as a “Badshah” (King) not only in name but also in character.
Another user, Rajat, offered a heartfelt prayer: “May Allah grant you a long life, and may Mother Ganga always keep you safe in her embrace.”
Pankaj Thapliyal observed that the Ganga is not merely a religious symbol but a life-giving river for all humanity. Sunita Kumari compared Lal Mohammad Badshah to historical figures such as Raskhan and Rahim—Muslim poets who became celebrated devotees of Lord Krishna.
Today, the historic Rani Lakshmi Bai Ghat in Bithoor has become the Badshah’s permanent base. He spends most of his day there, overseeing cleanliness efforts, meeting visitors, and sharing his message of environmental stewardship and communal harmony.
For many who visit Bithoor, Lal Mohammad Badshah is no longer just a boatman or a volunteer. He has become a living example of how devotion, service, and love for nature can transcend religious boundaries and bring communities together.
source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Stories / by Malick Asghar Hashmi, New Delhi / June 10th, 2026
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
BJP MLA Praises Five Muslim Men for Delhi Hotel Fire Rescue.
A devastating fire ripped through a budget hotel in South Delhi’s Malviya Nagar on Wednesday, claiming 21 lives and injuring dozens. Yet amid the chaos and loss, extraordinary acts of courage shone through as local residents, particularly five young Muslim men, risked their lives to save trapped occupants.
BJP MLA Satish Upadhyay praised the bravery of Afzal, Mohammad Shah Rukh, Mohammad Aneesh, Mohammad Aamir, and Mohammad Waseem.
आज के जांबाजों को सलाम!
मालवीय नगर के हौज रानी स्थित लेमन ग्रीन रेस्टोरेंट में लगी भीषण आग के दौरान इन पांच साहसी नागरिकों (अफजल, मो. शाहरुख, मो. अनीश, मो. आमिर और मो. वसीम) और पांच वीर पुलिसकर्मियों (एचसी दिनेश, एचसी करतार सिंह, एचसी देशराज, एचसी अजय और एचसी मीना) ने अपनी जान… pic.twitter.com/jthYR0aWEh
The five men repeatedly entered the burning building alongside Delhi Police to evacuate survivors, demonstrating selfless heroism. Upadhyay shared their photographs on social media, calling them “bravehearts” who saved many lives without regard for their own safety.
The rescue efforts extended far beyond official responders. Neighbours, shopkeepers, and workers from nearby establishments rushed to help. Riyazuddin, a 61-year-old mattress shop owner, pulled out all his stock and laid mattresses on the narrow lane below windows to cushion those jumping from upper floors. He saved at least 10 lives but suffered a loss of nearly ₹2 lakh.
Wasim Raza, a security officer at nearby Max Hospital, entered the smoke-filled building multiple times and performed CPR on at least 10 victims. Other locals like Mohammad Israr Khan and Mohammad Shoaib, a former fire emergency trainer, also joined rescue operations, helping carry out the injured and deceased.
The tragedy highlighted serious safety lapses. The hotel reportedly operated without fire clearance, had more rooms than approved, and only one entry-exit point. Police arrested owner Lovkesh Bajaj and registered an FIR under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. Among the dead were nine African nationals and two from Turkmenistan.
While the loss remains heartbreaking, the community’s swift response and the courage of ordinary citizens, especially the five Muslim youths, have earned widespread praise on social media for their humanity and bravery in the face of disaster.
source: http://www.muslimmirror.com / Muslim Mirror / Home> Indian Muslim> Positive Story / by Muslim Mirror Desk / June 04th, 2026
Local residents, traders and labourers rushed into action when a fire engulfed the Flourish Stay Bed and Breakfast on Wednesday, using ropes, mattresses, bricks and bare hands to rescue trapped guests before emergency teams fully gained control of the scene, The Times of India reported.
Witnesses said Mansur and Kapil were among the first to break windows with bricks after spotting people trapped behind smoke-filled glass panes, with no balconies for escape. Ropes were then thrown through the shattered windows to help occupants climb down from the burning building. “We could see hands banging against the glass… we realised they were trapped,” Mansur said.
Inside the building, Salauddin and Israr Khan entered after firefighters forced open the main entrance and moved floor to floor to pull out trapped guests. “The heat inside was unbearable. We carried out whoever we found,” Salauddin said, adding that several doors had to be forced open in near-zero visibility.
Outside, Riyazuddin, a mattress shop owner, along with Arman and Mohammad Shahrukh, quickly brought out mattresses and bedsheets, laying them on the road to cushion jumps from upper floors. “We just kept bringing mattresses and helping people jump,” Shahrukh said.
Rakesh Kumar and others climbed nearby rooftops and terraces, throwing ropes toward upper floors to help trapped occupants escape as smoke filled the structure. “We broke windows to release smoke and heat and threw ropes from the terrace,” he said.
At least 10 people, including women and children, were reported to have jumped onto mattresses to escape the blaze. Several rescuers suffered smoke inhalation and minor injuries but continued assisting until firefighters and police brought the fire under control.
source: http://www.millattimes.com / Millat Times / Home / by Millat Times Newsdesk / June 04th, 2026
A 42-year-old Muslim Ayurvedic doctor from Kerala, Sajna S.A., who had been working in Bhopal for the past six months, passed away after suffering a severe brain haemorrhage (subarachnoid haemorrhage). She was admitted to a private hospital in Bhopal on May 15 after her condition became critical.
Despite intensive medical care, her condition worsened, and doctors later declared her brain-stem dead.
Family Agrees to Organ Donation After Counselling
Following the diagnosis, doctors and transplant coordinators counselled the family about the possibility of organ donation. After careful discussion, her family agreed to donate her organs, turning a moment of personal loss into an act of life-saving generosity.
Hospital authorities said the entire process followed the guidelines of the National Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation (NOTTO), which regulates organ donation and transplantation procedures in the country.
What is Brain-Stem Death
Doctors explained that brain-stem death is a medically and legally recognised form of death. It refers to the irreversible loss of all brain functions, including those that control breathing and consciousness. Even if a ventilator keeps the heart beating, recovery is not possible.
Medical experts said such cases allow organ donation under strict protocols, as the organs remain viable for transplantation for a limited time.
Organs Transplanted to Save Lives
According to hospital officials, Sajna’s liver and one kidney were transplanted into patients admitted at the same hospital in Bhopal. Her second kidney was sent to another private hospital, where it was used for a patient in urgent need.
Dr S.K. Trivedi, Director of Bansal Hospital, said the family showed remarkable compassion during a difficult time.
“When asked if they had any preference regarding the recipient’s religion or identity, her husband said, ‘Give it to whoever needs it,’” he stated.
Doctors confirmed that all three organs helped save the lives of two patients.
Emotional Farewell With Full Honour
After the organ retrieval procedure, Sajna S.A.’s body was given a respectful farewell. Police personnel and hospital staff paid their tributes as part of the state’s recognition of organ donors.
Her body was later transported to Thiruvananthapuram for final rites in her hometown.
Hospital staff, local administration officials, and representatives from various organisations honoured the family for their decision, describing it as an example of humanity and compassion.
Debate and Public Response
The incident has drawn widespread attention on social media, where many users praised the family’s decision, calling it an example of “humanity beyond religion.”
Some users wrote that “humanity is the greatest religion,” while others highlighted the act as an example of interfaith harmony and selflessness.
Medical experts also said the case highlights the importance of organ donation awareness, especially in brain-stem death cases, where timely decisions can save multiple lives.
source: http://www.theobserverpost.com / The Observer Post / Home> India> Indian Muslims> Positive Story / by The Observer Post / May 29th, 2026
Despite the challenges, 74-year-old Mohammed has carried out this responsibility with unmatched expertise year after year, ensuring smooth continuation of this important tradition.
The chariot of Sri Polali Rajarajeshwari temple is getting prepared ahead of temple annual fair on April 10 / Photo | EPS
Mangaluru :
AH Mohammed, fondly known as Monakka from Ammunje, has been serving at the renowned Polali Sri Raja Rajeshwari Temple for the past 48 years. His primary responsibility, which is managing and steering the temple chariot using traditional wooden stoppers and preparing the chariot during the annual fair, is both demanding and highly skilled.
Handling the massive temple chariot is no simple task. It requires precision, coordination, and deep understanding to guide it safely along its route. Despite the challenges, 74-year-old Mohammed has carried out this responsibility with unmatched expertise year after year, ensuring smooth continuation of this important tradition.
A resident of Ammunje Kalai, Mohammed is retired, and had previously worked as sales manager at the cooperative society within the temple premises. Over time, he developed a strong rapport with the temple administration. Nearly five decades ago, when the temple authorities were planning to build a chariot, they sought his advice, recognising his background in the wood industry. Impressed by his knowledge, they entrusted him with the responsibility of managing the chariot during the annual fair.
Mohammed fondly recalls the support he received during the initial days from former temple administrators who stood by him throughout his journey.
Traditionally, the chariot is required to complete one full circle of the temple. In earlier days, this was particularly challenging due to muddy roads, which made navigation slow and difficult. Using wooden stoppers and his technical skills, Mohammed mastered the art of steering the chariot with remarkable ease and precision.
“We faced several challenges while moving the chariot, but I always had alternative solutions ready. It’s not as easy as it looks. Even preparing the chariot during the annual fair is a difficult task; installing ropes, wooden planks, sticks, and ensuring everything is in place for the fair requires careful supervision,” said Mohammed.
He says trust and teamwork have been key to his long service. “It’s the mutual trust between me and the temple administration that has helped us manage the chariot successfully all these years,” he says.
With the temple’s annual fair scheduled for April 10, preparations are already in full swing, and Mohammed is once again actively involved in decorating and readying the chariot. His daughter, Fathima Nusaiba, shares how deeply this service is woven into their family life. “Visiting the temple during the fair is as important to us as Eid. My father spends more time at Polali than at home. Even during Eid, he would be working at the temple. Despite having BP and diabetes, he becomes energetic when it comes to his work at Polali,” Fathima shared.
She also highlights the respect he has earned over the years, saying, “His friends from other communities often step forward to help even before family members do. Our family is always treated with great warmth and respect when we visit the temple.”
source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> Karnataka / by Abhijith N Kolpe / April 02nd, 2026
Santosh kumar and his father touching the feet of Guru Habib Master
This is the story of a family’s love and gratitude toward their guru. Thirty years ago, Habib Mastar, a teacher, had guided the family to send their son to school. This changed the family’s destiny as, today, the child is a Police officer in Madhya Pradesh.
Santosh Kumar Patel, Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDOP) in Ghatigaon, Gwalior district, shared a video on social media that won the hearts of thousands. He said he learned that his father’s old guru, 90-year-old Habib Mastar, was alive and living in Satna.
Hearing this, Santosh immediately set out with his father to meet him. When they arrived at his home, Santosh and his father touched his feet and sought his blessings.
It was evening, and Habib Sir was preparing to pray and break his fast. But as soon as he saw his former disciple, he dropped his plans and blessed them both by placing his hand over their heads.
Santosh Kumar and his father with Habib Mastar and his family
This scene was not just a meeting between a guru and his disciple, but a beautiful example of humanity and respect.
Today, Santosh Kumar has millions of followers on social media, where he inspires young people to change their lives through hard work and honesty. But within this success story, there’s also a chapter that conveys a message of humanity and brotherhood.
Santosh Kumar Patel was born into a poor family in Devgaon, near Ajaygarh tehsil in Panna district, Madhya Pradesh. His father was a mason, and his mother worked as a farm labourer. He spent his childhood in a small hut with a leaking roof. Even food was scarce, and at times the small child would go to bed without enough food in his stomach.
As a child, Santosh also helped his family. Sometimes he would collect tendu leaves, sometimes work in the fields, and sometimes carry bricks with his father. Despite all this, Santosh was very clear about getting an education.
At this stage, Habib Ali Sir entered his life. Habib was posted as a teacher in the local school. He would cycle 20 kilometres to reach the village.
Santosh says that Habib Marsab didn’t teach him, but he played a role in sending him to school. Village children often ran away from school, but Habib Sir would waylay them and take them to school, saying, “Only education can change your life.”
This small effort one day became a huge change.
Santosh explains that his father had briefly attended school under Habib Sir. Like most other village kids, he soon quit and took to grazing cattle. But those few days of study instilled in him the importance of education.
Many of Habib Mastars students became teachers, and some secured government jobs.
Santosh believes that such teachers are the true strength of society. After meeting Habib Marsab, Santosh wrote an emotional message:
“The one who transcends caste and religion and lights the lamp of education is a true guru.” His story demonstrates that the true religion of a true teacher is education. A small initiative by a Muslim teacher transformed the life of a poor family, and today, that family has become an inspiration for society.
The story of DSP Santosh Kumar Patel teaches us two important lessons. First, education and hard work can transform the life of any poor child.
source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Stories / by Amir Iqbal / March 11th, 2026
In a remarkable demonstration of courage and humanity, two young men from this capital city of Jharkhand, Abul Fazal and Mohammad Naushad, saved the life of Narayan Pandey, who was drowning in Bada Talab. Their swift and fearless action has earned them widespread accolades across the city.
According to eyewitnesses, Narayan Pandey was struggling in the waters of Bada Talab when Abul and Naushad immediately jumped in, pulling him to safety without any hesitation. “I couldn’t believe my eyes,” said one onlooker. “They didn’t think of anything else; their only concern was saving a life.”
Residents have praised the two youths, emphasising that their bravery is not only heroic but also a strong message against communal prejudice. “The courageous act by Abul and Naushad is like a slap on the face of those who try to divide people on religious lines,” said a local community leader.
Recognising their selfless act, Shamsher Alam, Vice President of the Minority Commission, formally honoured the youths by presenting them with a memento and incentive money. “This work is an example of true humanity,” Alam said. “They did not see religion or caste; they saved a life for the sake of humanity alone. I urge the district administration and government to provide them employment for their brave efforts.”
The Mahavir Mandal has also appealed to local authorities to encourage and reward such acts of heroism. Jai Singh Yadav, President of Mahavir Mandal, said, “Youth like Abul and Naushad should be recognised and provided small employment opportunities as a token of appreciation for their dedication to human life.”
This incident has highlighted the spirit of communal harmony and the exemplary bravery of young Muslims in the country. Social media users have shared their admiration widely, calling Abul Fazal and Mohammad Naushad role models for all.
In the current climate, where communal tensions often make headlines, the actions of these two youths remind the nation of the enduring values of courage, humanity, and unity. “We must celebrate people who rise above divisions to protect life,” said one resident. “Abul and Naushad have shown the true meaning of bravery.”
As the city hails their heroism, calls for formal employment and recognition reflect a broader desire to encourage selfless acts and reinforce inter-community respect. Their story now serves as an inspiring example for young Indians everywhere.
source: http://www.clarionindia.net / Clarion India / Home> Editor’s Pick> India> Indian Muslims / by Team Clarion (headline edited) / September 05th, 2025
In a period marked by suspicion and sharp communal divides, a quiet act of integrity by a Muslim scrap dealer in Faridabad has drawn attention for its moral clarity.
Haji Akhtar Khan, a kabadi trader in Ballabhgarh, returned gold jewellery worth around Rs 15 lakh to its Hindu owner nearly four months after unknowingly buying it as scrap. The jewellery, weighing close to 100 grams, had been accidentally mixed with household waste during a Diwali clean up and sold along with other discarded items.
The ornaments belonged to Ashok Sharma, a resident of Ballabhgarh. Weeks after selling the scrap, the Sharma family realised that a small packet containing gold jewellery was missing. The loss caused distress, since the ornaments represented years of savings and family memory. By then, the scrap had already passed into the informal recycling chain.
Khan had purchased the scrap in bulk, a routine practice in the trade. Months later, while sorting stored material in his warehouse, he noticed a packet hidden among old items. On opening it, he discovered gold jewellery. The find came at a time when Muslims in several regions face frequent suspicion in public life and trade.
Instead of treating the discovery as an unexpected gain, Khan chose a different path. When Sharma later approached him with inquiries, Khan admitted finding the jewellery and promised to return it without delay.
To maintain transparency, the handover took place at the office of ACP Ballabhgarh Jitesh Malhotra, in the presence of police officials. The moment carried visible emotion for the Sharma family, who received back their belongings intact. Police officers present described the act as rare and worthy of recognition.
Those familiar with Khan describe him as a practising Muslim who has performed Hajj and regards honesty as central to faith and livelihood. In Islamic teaching, amanah or trust holds deep importance, especially in trade and public dealings. Khan reportedly said the discovery felt like a trust placed upon him and returning it remained a duty before God.
The episode unfolded against a broader backdrop of heightened communal tension, economic boycotts, and stereotyping directed at Muslims in public discourse. In such an environment, everyday acts often receive communal labels. Khan’s decision challenged such narratives through conduct rather than argument.
Faridabad, part of the National Capital Region, mirrors many of north India’s social complexities. It hosts factories, migrant labour, and small traders from diverse communities. In this setting, an ordinary scrap transaction turned into a moment of shared trust between neighbours of different faiths.
For Ashok Sharma and Haji Akhtar Khan, the exchange rested on honesty rather than identity. The story has since circulated locally as an example of lived communal harmony. It offered a reminder that ethical choices remain possible even amid strained social conditions.
What began as a Diwali mistake ended with restored faith in human conscience. The return of the jewellery did more than correct a loss. It affirmed dignity, trust, and coexistence through a simple decision guided by principle.
source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Latest News> Report / by Radiance News Bureau / February 23rd, 2026
