Category Archives: Women/Girls(since May26-2021)

Begum Akhtara Ahmed is first Muslim woman elected to Bodoland Council

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Bodoland, ASSAM :

Begum Akhtara Ahmed during her election campaign

For the first time, the Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC), led by Bodoland People’s Front (BPF) chief Hagrama Mohilary, has a Muslim woman as an elected executive member. As Muslims in BTAD (Bodoland Territorial Autonomous Districts) had been feeling marginalised for a long time, a Muslim woman’s election to a council is significant and historic.

BTC is the governing autonomous council of BTAD, aka BTR (Bodoland Territorial Region), comprising Kokrajhar, Chirang, Baksa, Udalguri and Tamulpur of Assam as districts. It was formed following the peace treaty with the Bodoland Liberation Front in February 2003. BTAD covers an area of over 9000 square kilometres and is predominantly inhabited by the Bodo people and other tribal communities of Assam.

Begum Akhtara Ahmed has been elected from Mathanguri constituency of the BTC and inducted into Mohilary’s cabinet. She has been bestowed with the responsibility of the Public Health Engineering (PHE) Department. Regional political party BPF won the single largest party majority in the BTC elections held in September 2025 with 28 seats.

Begum Akhtara Ahmed and  Hagrama Mohilary

Incumbent UPPL won seven seats and the BJP won five seats in the 40-seat council. The BTC was formed in 2003, and Hagrama Mohilary has been in power for the past five years.

Begum Akhtara Ahmed of the BTC had no aim or desire to be in politics as she wanted to be a litterateur. But destiny has another script for her life.

Begum Akhtara was born in the Kalgachia area of Barpeta district. She got her primary education in Kalgachia. She was married while studying in Class VII.

Her husband, Ibrahim Ali Molla, recently retired as a higher secondary school teacher. Begum Akhtara could pursue her education. Her first child was born while she was in Class X. She passed her matriculation examination under such circumstances.

Begum Akhtara Ahmed addressing a political rally

Her second child was born while she was in Class XII. Begum Akhtara continued her education and completed her postgraduate degree from Gauhati University in 2003.

She joined Langla College in the Bangaigaon district as a part-time lecturer, but quit soon. She got involved in politics. She joined the Congress and was appointed as the organising secretary of the Barpeta District Women’s Congress.

Since her matrimonial home is in Lawahur village of Mathanguri constituency in Baksa district, she changed her address and became the president of the Baksa District Women’s Congress. She joined the BPF in 2004.

Begum Akhtara Ahmed with Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma

This is where her new political journey and new life of conflicts begin. Party chief Mohilary formed the women’s wing of the BPF, and she was appointed its president.

After three years as the women’s BPF president, she was appointed as the party’s organising secretary by party president Hagrama Mohilary.

She contested the 2020 BTC elections for the first time and was defeated by the BJP’s Gautam Das in the Mathanguri constituency. This time, however, Begum Akhtara contested from the same constituency for the second time and defeated the same opponent.

Begum Akhtara Ahmed was attacked and her house was torched in the once-violent BTC. She was even threatened and asked to stay away from politics in the BTC.  Once, while she was busy with a political meeting, her car was set on fire at the venue, and she barely survived.

Begum Akhtara Ahmed with activists of her party at a rally

Begum Akhtara Ahmed said three of her cars were set on fire in 2012. It may be mentioned that several incidents of attacks on minorities took place in the BTC in 2012. Most of the attacks took place in the Baksa district, from where many minorities were forced to flee their homes. Several people were even brutally murdered.

However, all this could not distract her from her goals and objectives.

Praising her leader, Hagrama Mohilary, Begum Akhtar said he wants the Bodo people to move forward along with all ethnic groups. So she is happy to work under the leadership of Mohilary.

According to Begum Akhtara, BTC is a small place. Therefore, it is necessary to rely on the governments at the Centre and in the state to work for its development. Otherwise, developmental work may be interrupted. “We don’t have to look at which party’s government is at the Centre or in the State, we have to work with that government in coordination,” she said.

source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Story / by Priya Sarma, Guwahati / October 27th, 2025

Bhatkal’s Coastal Flavours Shine at Hyderabad Pop-Up

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Bhatkal, KARNATAKA :

Hyderabad:

Diners at Sheraton Hyderabad were recently introduced to the rarely seen Bhatkali cuisine, thanks to home chef Fatima Riyaz. Through an exclusive pop-up, Fatima presented dishes rooted in the coastal town of Bhatkal in Karnataka, highlighting its Nawayathi heritage and centuries of cultural exchange.

Bhatkali food is known for its unique blend of spices, coconut, and rice. “Five out of six dishes have rice in some form,” Fatima explained, noting how coconut adds sweetness and depth to most preparations. Spice levels are high, but carefully balanced with caramelised onions. Signature to the cuisine is Loli, a red chilli-based spice paste slow-cooked in coconut oil and used across dishes.

The Sheraton menu included Mudkale, rice balls with prawns cooked in coconut oil, and seasonal desserts like Chibbad, a local melon served with coconut milk and lime. While seafood dominates the cuisine, Fatima also created vegetarian versions to suit diverse diners.

Her food is deeply personal, drawn from family traditions and her community’s layered history. “Our cuisine reflects Islamic influences, Jain touches, and coastal Indian roots,” she said. The language of her community, Nawayathi, similarly borrows from Marathi and Konkani, echoing cultural ties along the western coast.

Fatima began cooking professionally after the pandemic, inspired by people reviving traditional recipes. Since then, she has taken Bhatkali cuisine to cities through curated pop-ups. “I only cook this cuisine,” she noted. “It is Indian, but with a sweetness that is ours.”

Story by Deccan Chronicle

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Features> Latest News> Report / by Radiance News Bureau / September 20th, 2025

Madrasa with Jewish roots lights up a new path in western UP

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Sambhal District, UTTAR PRADESH :

New Delhi : 

A family of Bani Israel (Sons of Israel), running one of the oldest madrasas in India may sound unbelievable. But in Sambhal district of West Uttar Pradesh, a nondescript locality, Hilali Sarai, boasts of such a seminary run by a family that has roots in ancient Israel.

Madrasa Sirajul Uloom, named after Maulana Siraj Ahmed Israili, who was a renowned aalim of his time and among few Islamic scholars who backed Sir Syed Ahmed Khan, the founder of a modern madrasa (later Aligarh Muslim University), is run by Mohammed Mian Israili Qasmi, the representative of living generation of his family.

The madrasa is affiliated to UP Madrasa Board and runs both traditional Dars-e-Nizami syllabus and modern curriculum prescribed by the board that includes compulsory study of maths, english, hindi and science. Such madrasas are also called ‘model madrasas’ as they are following the government model of madrasa modernisation.

The Israili family traces its lineage to the Jewish companion of Prophet Muhammed, Abdullah bin Salam, who had converted to Islam during the lifetime of the Prophet. Nevertheless, the family has been maintaining its Bani Israel cultural identity all through history.

“The historical records say that our ancestor Abu Ishaque Abul Aja’ib Shah Muhammad Hilali came to India during the time of Mughal Emperor Akbar when the latter started Deen-e-Ilahi and a horde of Islamic scholars descended from Arabia to guide the ‘misguided’ Emperor.

Historian Abdul Qadir Badayuni has mentioned Shah Hilali. He initially settled in Fatehpur Sikri near Agra and later on the insistence of Akbar himself, he moved to Sambhal. Thus, this place came to be known as Hilali Sarai. He had established his maktab (school) here, as was the tradition of the time that scholars used to start learning centres wherever they settled. Since then, our family has been running an educational house here,” says Mian Israili Qasmi, detailing the family history of the Israilis.

A research paper in the Interdisciplinary Journal of Jewish Studies by researcher on Jews in South Asia, Navras Jat Aafreedi, proves the authenticity of Mian Israili’s claim.

“There is a Sunni Muslim clan called Bani Israil in Sambhal (District Mo-radabad) and Aligarh in Uttar Pradesh, members of which consider themselves to be descendants of a Jewish sahaabi (companion of the prophet Muhammad) Hazrat Abdullah Ibn-i-Salaam. They claim that their ancestors settled in India a millennium ago to propagate Islam. Members of this clan generally use Israili as their last name. They reside, in both Sambhal and Aligarh, in a locality, each called Bani Israil Mohalla or Mohalla Bani Israilaan. Many from this clan migrated to Pakistan after its creation in 1947…” writes Aafreedi.

Similarly, one more scholar Joshua M. Benjamin, the author of The Mystery of Israel’s Ten Lost Tribes and the Legend of Jesus in India (2001), mentions having met an Aligarh Muslim University Professor with the Hebrew sounding name Shimoni Israili, a member of this clan.

Similarly classical historian Abdul Qadir Badayuni, writer of notable Muntakhab-ut-Tawarikh, the history of early Mughal period, mentions Shah Hilali Israili as a renowned Islamic scholar of Mughal period. Shah Hilali in Sambhal in fact taught him in the same maktab, which is today Sirajul Uloom.

Narrating more history of the madrasa, Mian Israeli says that as the Mughal rule went into sunset, the madrasa was patronised by Nawab of Hyderabad. The patronage lasted till the fall of Nawab’s Nizamat after the Partition of India.

“Meanwhile, one notable change took place. When Maulana Siraj Ahmed Israeli refused to sign a fatwa against Sir Syed Ahmed Khan, he became very pleased with Maulana and offered him to join as faculty in newly opened Mohammedan Anglo Oriental (MAO) College. Maulana didn’t go himself but sent his son Maulana Khalil Ahmed Israeli to join the college as Professor of Arabic. Maulana Khalil was later conferred the title of Shamsul Ulema (a coveted honour) by the Colonial British government for this contribution in the field of education. While at MAO college, Maulana established the madrasa in a formal registered body in 1902. Since then, it’s been running in a similar fashion,” says Mian Israeli.

Mian Israeli maintains that the madrasa has always maintained a progressive outlook and has guided the Muslim community in very practical way.

“The scholars and patrons of the madrasa have always taken the lead in advising Muslims of siding with rationality and minimising both personal and social conflict. That’s you will not find any controversy ever attached with this seminary. In fact, the stellar history of the madrasa has remained obscured because we haven’t chased limelight and few curious minds have cared to know the silsila (lineage) of scholarship,” says Mian Israili.

Mian Israili lists Moulana Muhammad Manzoor Nomani, Moulana Muhammad Hayat Sambhli, Ghazi Muhammad Aazam, and freedom fighter politician Maulana Ismail Sambhali, among others as part of the blood-line.

Maulana Ismail Sambhali was a noted figure of Jamiat Ulema- e Hind, a body of Indian Islamic scholars who were against division of India on religious lines. Maulana Ismail even fought 1946 election against Muslim League candidate and was among the chosen few who won on the Congress ticket from a reserved Muslim seat.

Maulana Manzoor Nomani, however, however, adopted a different way. He is credited to have turned Syed Abul Ala Maududi, who was a progressive and modern Muslim journalist-writer, into Maulana Maududi, a hardcore religious figure and both of them floated Jamaat- e-Islami. Manzoor Nomani also emerged as one of the tallest Islamic scholars of India in 20th century, and is regarded as an authority on Hadith. Unlike Maududi, he didn’t go to Pakistan and got himself attached with Lucknow-based seminary Nadwatul Ulema. In late 1970’s and 1980’s, his books on Ayatollah Khomeini and Islamic Revolution created a storm in the Indian Muslim community and they are said to be one of the causes of sectarian violence in Lucknow.

Mian Israili did not comment on Nomani’s views, as “they were personal to him”. “As I said, our seminary has always propagated the route of bridging gaps and persuading people to come closer rather than splitting apart. People can do anything in their individual capacity and scholarship,” says Mian Isarili.

He insists that the seminary must be viewed through his views on burning subjects such as triple talaq, halala, etc. So, what are his views? “I think the arbitrary manner of triple talaq is absolutely contrary to the spirit of Quran and is malignant. Halala is haram,” he stresses.

Coming back to the history of the madrasa, Mian Israili says that after the end of Hyderabad’s Nizamat, the madrasa was recognised by the government of India. “However, it was only in 1990’s that it was properly affiliated to the UP-Madrasa Board and it started getting government aid as slated for the seminaries,” says Mian Israil.

According to him, as part of the Madrasa Board, the seminary has to teach compulsory subjects like hindi, maths, english and science. “As part of the Board affiliation, the government also appoints 12 teachers for primary and junior high school level. All these teachers have to have knowledge of Urdu as compulsory as the medium of the madrasa is Urdu,” he says.

When reminded that how come the students taught in Urdu medium compete with those being taught in Hindi or English mediums, he says that keeping this in mind, the teachers are urged to teach Science and Maths in English so that students who want to pursue further studies in a science subject and they might join other schools. Only those who want to pursue religious studies and languages such as Arabic and Persian may stay in the seminary.

“Most of our students pass out after Class 8 and opt for mainstream education in regular government and private schools. Only those boys and girls who want to pursue Theology and languages go for further classes,” says Mian Israili.

According to Israili, there are around 800 students enrolled with the madrasa. Out of them, 250 are girls. The madrasa has residential facilities for 50 students.

“For a modern madrasa, the basic requirement is resources. As being a government-aided institution, we certainly get some teachers on government pay scale, but we don’t get other facilities like building, hostel, classroom, ground and other facilities. For that, we have to depend on chanda (collection and donation from the community),” says Mian Israili.

source: http://www.daijiworld.com / DaijiWorld.com / Home> National-World / by Mohammed Anas / March 15th, 2022

Taiyba Afroz: The Muslim girl from Bihar can fly planes

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Saran District, BIHAR :

Taiyba Afroz

Taiyba Afroz created history by becoming a commercial pilot. The Muslim girl hails from a modest family. Her father Motiul Haq runs a ration shop in the Madhoura locality in the Saran district of Bihar and her mother Samsun Nisha is a homemaker.

Despite such challenges, Taiyaba remained determined to achieve her dream of becoming a commercial pilot. Her journey began in 2019 when she joined the Government Aviation Training Institute in Bhubaneswar. There she logged 200 grueling flight hours, battling storms, monsoons, and self-doubt.

Taiyaba’s training was marathon-2-3 years of theory exams (scoring 70%+ in DGCA papers), simulator drills, and mastering the art of safe landings.

“Flying solo for 100 hours was terrifying but fear never griped my mind,” she recalls.

Later, in 2023, she completed 120 hours of training at Indore Flying Club. After all this, Taiyaba finally obtained her license from the DDCA. She was certified to become a commercial pilot and can fly any commercial plane.

As a Muslim woman in a crisp pilot’s uniform, Taiyaba faced catcalls: “Shouldn’t she be in a Burqa?” To this, she retorts: “The cockpit has no dress code. The aircraft doesn’t care about your surname.”

A pilot’s salary starts at ₹1.5 lakh,” but that’s not the trophy, Taiyaba aimed to achieve. Her real achievement is being a Muslim girl, coming from a backward region of Bihar, hailing from a weak financial family; she endured all these odds and has come out with flying colors. Her message is; “Look at this Muslim girl, she can fly planes.”

Taiba Afroz is not just a pilot; she’s a beacon for every Muslim girl who is told to shrink their dreams. Her success story is a matter of pride as she inspires many young Muslim girls to follow her career path. She is a role model for them.

Taiyaba’s achievement testifies that with perseverance and determination, any goal can be achieved.

Her story screams that; the sky is not the limit, it’s the beginning.

—

Syed Ali Mujtaba is a journalist. He can be contacted at syedalimujtaba2007@gmail.com

source: http://www.muslimmirror.com / Muslim Mirror / Home> Positive Story / by Muslim Mirror Network / March 05th, 2025

NFGIO launches national campaign, CHERISH

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Mumbai, MAHARASHTRA :

The launch of the national campaign, CHERISH

The National Federation of Girls Islamic Organisation (NFGIO) organised a national campaign titled “Connecting Hearts Eternally in Relishing Islamic Sisterhood’ (CHERISH)” with the theme المتحابون في الله which translates to ‘those who love each other for the sake of Allah’.

Mumbai :

The National Federation of Girls Islamic Organisation (NFGIO) organised a national campaign titled “Connecting Hearts Eternally in Relishing Islamic Sisterhood’ (CHERISH)” with the theme المتحابون في الله which translates to ‘those who love each other for the sake of Allah’. The launching program of the campaign was held at Marathi Patrakar Sangh here Sunday.

The program commenced with the soulful recitation of the verses from the Holy Quran by Uzma Sagri (Regional In-charge, GIO Mumbai Region), followed by the welcoming words by Anamtha Ahmed (General Secretary, GIO MSZ).

Sister Samar Ali (General Secretary, NFGIO) shed light on the aims and objectives of the campaign.

Advocate Sumaiya Roshan, National President NFGIO addressing the program

The launching program was inaugurated by Adv. Sumaiya Roshan, (President, NFGIO), detailing the core intentions planned to be achieved through the campaign.

Adv. Sumaiya explained the goal of the campaign as to establish a secure and encouraging community for Muslim sisters. They must unite to confront the world’s obstacles and thrive with their steadfast faith. Unfortunately, in present times, practising and expressing one’s faith can be arduous and often unaccepted. This leaves many Muslim women feeling alienated from society.

Through sisterhood, women can discover and embrace their authentic selves as creations of the Almighty. They can find their purpose in life and ways to achieve it. The Almutahabbuna Fillah – Companions of the Shade campaign aims to promote righteous friendships among sisters. These friendships go beyond selfish worldly needs and are blessed by Allah. They can be a means of earning His pleasure and becoming successful in both this life and the Hereafter.

The phrase Almutahabbuna Fillah means “those who love each other for the sake of Allah.” It is narrated that on the Day of Judgement, there will be no shade except for the shade of Allah. Among the seven types of people who will be under His shade are two people who love each other for the sake of Allah.

The program further had felicitation addresses by Mrs. Rahmathunnissa A., National Secretary, JIH. She mentioned the contributions put forth by the Girls Islamic Organization from its formation in 1984 in developing and enhancing a healthy society. The organization has been working towards the goal of enhancing the community and developing them to serve for the betterment of the whole of humanity.

It was followed by the address of Mr. Mohammed Zafar Ansari, Secretary, JIH Maharashtra, followed by the concluding address of Khan Shaheen Jattu, Vice President, NFGIO.

The panel discussion held with Advocate Huriya Patel, Uzma Naheed, Haniya Anwar and Samar Ali

A panel discussion titled “Muslim Women: Deciphering the Dilemma of Identity in Contemporary India” was conducted with Samar Ali as the moderator as part of the event. Samar stated the aim of the discussion as to bring forth powerful and socially engaging Muslim women icons and establish the idea of empowerment through their presence in the public sphere.

The panellists included Mrs. Uzma Nahid (Executive Director, Iqra Education Foundation), Adv. Huriya Patel (Advocate, Bombay High Court) and Ms Haniya Anwar (Student leader, TISS Mumbai).

Uzma Nahid encouraged the audience to be revolutionary thinkers and to focus on getting educated and enlightened on the necessity of financial development for the overall empowerment of women.

The audience listening to the discussion at Marathi Patrakar Sangh, Mumbai

Adv. Huriya Patel mentioned the lack of legal awareness among the women community and pointed out the importance of embracing one’s identity and beliefs without compromising values and ethics to build successful career platforms.

Haniya Anwar inspiringly brought forth the challenges faced by Muslims in general and women with visible Muslim identity in particular on Indian campuses. She shared her experience faced while contesting for the post of Equal Opportunity Cell of Students Union, TISS Mumbai.

The panel discussion was concluded by Mrs. Rahmathunnissa A., who highlighted that if one is ready to change the society, nothing can stop them.

The program concluded with a vote of thanks by Aamna Khanam (Secretary, NFGIO) who thanked everyone for their enormous support for the historical event.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Latest News / by Aaliyah Rumane / September 20th, 2023

Beacon of Education Reemerges In Gritty Grades of Kashmiri Girls

Bharat Ratna, Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, Padma Shri Award (since January 01st, 2024), Books (incl.Biographies - w.e.f.01 jan 2018 ), Women/Girls(since May26-2021),

JAMMU & KASHMIR :

Begum Zaffar Ali

The legendary educationist of Kashmir whose door-to-door campaigning inspired generations of Kashmiri girls resurfaced in their recent academic feat.

IN his celebrated anthology, The Veiled Suite: The Collected Poem, Agha Shahid Ali details his grandmother’s “bleeding heart”—which ensured the educational empowerment of the masses in the valley.

Shahid’s poem, Prayer Rug in her memory, became a token introduction of “the lady with a lamp” — Begum Zaffar Ali.

this year my grandmother
also a pilgrim
in Mecca she weeps

as the stone is unveiled
she weeps holding on
to the pillars

Beyond the poem, however, there’s a staggering profile of the grand old lady of Kashmir—whose educational service made her legend.

“Firmly determined, my mother-in-law, Begum Zaffar Ali, was a self-made lady, who spent her life relentlessly advocating for women education and empowerment in the valley,” recalls Dr. Shaheena Agha, at her Rajbagh residence.

In the sweeping accolades being showered on the lockdown-hit girls whose recent grades once again made them the shining stars of Kashmir’s dented academia, Begum Zaffar Ali found a glorious mention for inspiring generations of girls in the valley.

“My mother-in-law was one of the first Kashmiri girls whose grit made her a beacon of educational excellence,” Shaheena continues.

“An untiring activist, Begum Zaffar helped Kashmiri women in one way or another. I take inspiration from her.”

In her 60s, Shaheena first met Begum Zaffar as a 26-year-old woman, when she married the celebrated educationist’s eldest son, Agha Nasir Ali, in 1986.

“It was an evening of mutual admiration and love,” she talks about the first interaction with her mother-in-law. “By then, she had already retired, but I was instantly moved by her illustrious persona.” 

Begum Zaffar can be easily identified as one of the most influential and meticulous women of her times. Her life, Shaheena says, was that of extraordinary persistence and intellect which brought girl education to the forefront and dispelled illiteracy and ignorance.

“As a champion of women rights, her tireless and unwavering contribution to social changes and reforms pertaining to girl education in the valley and upliftment came at a time when society was predominantly patriarchal and orthodox in its outlook and question of women liberation and education were still widely restricted,” Shaheena says.

Begum Zaffar Ali was born in 1900 in the distinguished Agha family of Srinagar with her maiden name, Syyeda Fatima Hussain. She was the eldest daughter of Khan Bahadur Aga Syed Hussain, the first matriculate of Kashmir.

Along with her siblings, she was homeschooled by a European Home Governess. While pursuing her education, she was married to her cousin, Agha Zafar Ali Qazalbaash, a scion of Afghan family. She continued her education after marriage.

While being a mother to three, she went ahead taking revolutionary strides and efforts which would go on to change the face of women’s emancipation and education in the valley and inspire thousands of young girls for years to come.

“She brought an era of renaissance and regeneration in the lives of the Kashmiri women,” says Nusrat Mehmood, a senior college lecturer who calls Begum her inspiration. “Her passionate, non-conforming and unorthodox life will continue to rekindle the spirit of excellence in people like me.”

In 1925, Begum Zaffar was invited to teach in a Girls Missionary High School run by Miss Mallinson and Miss Bose in old Srinagar’s Fateh Kadal area.

“During those times, being a teachress was seen as a stigma but nevertheless she joined the school to serve the cause of education,” lecturer Mehmood continues.

“Her door-to-door campaigning for education in an era of subjugation and poverty makes Begum one of the most unsung educationists of the world. Her academic pursuits and ambitions to bring social changes heralded a new hope.”

Such was the zeal and determination of Begum Zaffar that she simultaneously started philanthropy work towards the poor girl of the school and looked after their hygiene and overall development.

“She even encouraged both young and elderly women to seek education and personally volunteered to teach them,” says Mubashir Hussain, a social activist from Srinagar.

“Through the good offices of her father who was then Home and Judicial Minister in Maharaja’s regime, grants were sanctioned for the schools. Begum managed to get an extra sum of Rs 10 sanctioned for the maintenance of girls every month besides meals.”

Impressed by her progress in studies, her children’s home tutor encouraged her to sit for the matriculation examination as she, by then, had been teaching girl students of tenth standard for five years.

Begum Zaffar was reluctant initially as no woman from the valley till then had passed the matric exam. She finally broke the jinx by becoming the first matriculate woman of Kashmir in 1930 and went on to complete her graduation in Domestic Science and Liberal Arts from Lady Mclegon College, Lahore in 1938.

“Back then, parents were still debating whether to give only religious teachings to their girl child or give them modern education,” says Rameez Kashani, a history lecturer.

“To uplift Kashmiri women and free them from their ignorance and religious and social conservatism, Begum Zaffar led the movement of women emancipation in the valley where she could encourage girls to come forward and educate themselves.”

Later she was appointed as the Inspector of Schools in Kashmir and was the first Muslim in her administrative capacity, who went on delivering lectures in colleges and social gatherings.

As a great orator and popular figure, Begum Zaffar was a key member behind the foundation of Teachers Club and Ladies Club, whose members included Tara Devi, queen of Kashmir’s last monarch, Hari Singh.

“The club was central to bringing reform changes and participation in the lives of the Kashmiri women,” Kashani says.

Before the bloodcurdling fall of 1947, Begum Zaffar had served as the secretary of the All India Women’s Association but later resigned due to her displeasure with the association’s nationalist fervour.

Back in 1944, she had famously hosted Mohammad Ali Jinnah and his sister, Fatimah Jinnah at Srinagar. She had organised a meeting of Kashmiri women with the stalwart’s shadow sibling at present day Lawns of Secretariat.

Begum Zaffar Ali with Mohammad Ali Jinnah in this pre-47 pic.

In her lifetime, Begum Zaffar held various offices and with her intellectual ability and leadership, she was the first Muslim in Kashmir to become a director in the Department of Education.

In her later days, she was also member of the Social Welfare Advisory Board, Jammu and Kashmir, and even became a legislator.

At personal level, Begum’s three sons went on to have distinguished public profiles. Her two sons, Agha Nasir Ali and Agha Shaukat Ali were civil bureaucrats.

While Agha Nasir retired as Labour Secretary of India in 1977, Agha Shaukat Ali, moved to Pakistan and joined Civil Services. Her youngest son Agha Ashraf Ali followed her footsteps and went on to become a top academician and educationist of the valley.

“It was Begum Zaffar Ali whom Sheikh Abdullah approached to convince her son, Agha Shaukat Ali to come back from Pakistan and join his cabinet,” Shaheena says. “During her lifetime, she longed to meet the same son when he moved to Pakistan. But New Delhi never granted a visa to her for meeting her son in the neighbouring country.”

When the same government awarded Padma Shri to her in recognition of her outstanding contribution to the field of social welfare in 1987, Begum famously declined the award in a televised Doordarshan interview.

“The Indian state excesses and gross human rights violations in Kashmir was the reason behind the non-acceptance,” historian Kashani says.

In her later years, the top educationist had been shuttling between Srinagar and Washington, to be with her exiled son.

In 1999, when she was staying with Agha Shaukat in the United States, the whole family, including her great grandchildren, had planned to celebrate her birthday as she was turning 100 year old.

“But sadly,” Shaheena says, “she passed away a month short of her illustrious century!”

source: http://www.kashmirobserver.net / Kashmir Observer / Home> In Depth> Special Report / by Rakshanda Afrin / March 11th, 2021

Shaheen Group Honors Women with “Shaan-e-Mulk” Lifetime Achievement Award

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Bidar, KARNATAKA :

On India’s 76th Republic Day, Shaheen Group of Institutions, Bidar, organized the “Shaan-e-Mulk” Lifetime Achievement Award to honor five distinguished women for their contributions to education, business, humanitarian services, and healthcare.

Dr. Abdul Qadeer, Chairman of Shaheen Group, emphasized the vital role of women in society, stating, “Women are the backbone of families and communities, yet their contributions often go unrecognized. It is crucial to celebrate their achievements and inspire future generations.

Honorees

The award was presented to:

Ms. Shaukat Begum (Institutional Development)

Ms. Noor Jahan Shakeel (Humanitarian Services)

Dr. Rana Noor Siddiqui (Education & Research)

Ms. Uzma Naheed (Entrepreneurship)

Dr. Noor Jahan Sagheer (Healthcare)

The event, attended by thousands of female students, showcased academic performances and aimed to challenge stereotypes, inspire young women, and foster community pride.

Key attendees included Managing Director Abdul Haseeb, Academic Director Abdul Muqeet, and directors Shaista, Wafa, Zakia, Meher Sultana, Afra Naaz, and Munir Deshmukh.

source: http://www.thehindustangazette.com / The Hindustan Gazette / Home> Education / by The Hindustan Gazette / January 29th, 2025

Congress’s Gulzaar Banu bags Mangaluru Mayor’s post as BJP goofs up

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Mangaluru, KARNATAKA :

Gulzaar Banu of Congress being offer a bouquet by B.Ramanath Rai, MLA (second left) and Vijayakumar shetty fomer MLA (second right) after she was elected unopposed as the new Mayor of Mangalore City Corporation surrounded and greeted by Congress councillors and and supporters in Mangalore on March 07, 2012. Photo: R.Eswarraj

The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the council of Mangalore City Corporation faced an embarrassment on Wednesday as a councillor from the Opposition Congress was elected Mayor unopposed.

Rejection of the nomination papers of the official nominee from the BJP led to this fiasco. However, a BJP candidate was elected Deputy Mayor.

M. V. Jayanthi, Regional Commissioner, Mysore, who was the Election Officer, rejected the nomination papers of the BJP candidate Roopa D. Bangera on the grounds that she had not submitted her caste certificate in the prescribed format within the given time. There was no dummy candidate of the BJP in the fray. Hence, the Opposition Congress candidate Gulzaar Banu (49) was declared unopposed.

Ms. Banu became the first Muslim Mayor of Mangalore.

The Government had reserved the post of Mayor to a woman councillor from Backward Caste 2 A category.

In the 60-member House, the BJP 35 councillors, the Congress 21, the Janata Dal (Secular) and the Communist Party of India (Marxists) one each. There are two Independent councillors.

Thus, the BJP had 36 votes (including Mangalore South MLA N. Yogish Bhat) on Wednesday. But it could not get its candidate elected against the Congress which had 21 votes. After the Election Officer announced that Ms. Banu had been elected unopposed as the Mayor, Mr. Bhat left the council hall while the other BJP councillors continued to participate in the meeting. Ms. Bangera’s ward (Kadri North) falls under the limits of Mangalore City South Assembly constituency represented by Mr. Bhat. In the election held for the post of Deputy Mayor later, Amitakala of the BJP defeated S. Appi of the Congress by a margin of 14 votes. Ms. Amitakala secured 35 votes and Ms. Appi 21 votes.

The Election Officer conducted the election to four standing committees of the council which went on smoothly.

After the election process was completed by about 5 p.m. all BJP councillors, including the Deputy Mayor, and officials walked out of the meeting presided by the new Mayor. Only one official was present at the meeting.

The Congress councillors alleged that outgoing the Mayor Praveen did not hand over the Mayor’s gown to Ms. Banu. Independent councillor Mariyamma Thomas, an advocate, told The Hindu that there was no provision in the Karnataka Municipal Corporations Act, 1976, to move a no-confidence motion against the Mayor. Hence the BJP could not overthrow the new Mayor.

source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> Cities> Mangaluru / March 08th, 2012

Disability Can’t Stop Dreams: Bombay HC Lets Uzma Khan Enrolled in MBBS Course

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Mumbai, MAHARASHTRA :

Bombay High Court rejects discrimination by medical boards in landmark disability rights verdict; it rules that certified disabled students cannot be repeatedly questioned on their eligibility

New Delhi :

In a powerful judgment that reaffirmed the fundamental right to education for all, the Bombay High Court has ruled in favour of Uzma Rashid Khan, a blind Muslim student from Jogeshwari West in Mumbai, who was unjustly denied admission to an MBBS course under the disability quota.

This week (October 8), the court declared that a certified person with a disability cannot be forced to repeatedly prove eligibility before different medical boards. The verdict allows Uzma to participate in the third round of NEET UG 2025 counselling under the PwBD (Persons with Benchmark Disabilities) category.

Delivering the order under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, the court stated that no educational institution has the right to deny admission on the basis of disability. The judgment described the disability category as a legal right, not a special concession.

Uzma Khan, who has a 40% visual disability certificate and a Unique Disability ID (UDID) card, had earlier been declared ineligible for the PwD quota by the medical boards of AIIMS Nagpur and Grant Medical College JJ Hospital in Mumbai. The rejection came despite her official disability certification.

Determined not to surrender, Uzma fought back. Guided by Advocate Rahul Bajaj, she filed a petition in the Bombay High Court, challenging what she called a “deeply unfair and humiliating decision.”

In a detailed order, the court held that since Uzma already possessed a valid certificate confirming her disability, she could not be made to undergo multiple verifications. The judgment further recognised her as fully capable of pursuing medical education and directed authorities to include her in the third round of NEET counselling.

The timing of the judgment is extraordinary. The third round of NEET counselling was nearing its final stage and the portal for filling preferences had already closed. However, in what many called an “unprecedented act of fairness,” the court ordered the reopening of the admission portal for half an hour exclusively for Uzma so that she could submit her form.

The decision not only secured Uzma’s admission but also became a milestone in the struggle for equal educational opportunities for disabled students across India.

“This is not just my victory,” Uzma told local media after hearing the verdict. “It is the victory of every disabled student who dreams of becoming something in life despite physical challenges. I thank Allah and the court for doing justice.”

Uzma’s father, speaking to reporters with visible emotion, recalled the family’s struggle:

“One day, while studying for NEET, Uzma suddenly cried that her vision had become blurry. It was the most painful moment of our lives,” he said. “We went from one hospital to another, losing precious time. Later, she was certified as 40% blind, and we got her UDID card made.”

He added, “Uzma prepared hard for NEET 2025 and scored 286 marks. She was confident of getting admission in a government medical college under the disability quota. But during verification, she was declared ineligible. It felt like the world collapsed around us.”

After being rejected, the family turned to Khidmat Trust, which guided them to Advocate Bajaj. “He stood by us, filed the petition, and kept our hope alive,” Uzma’s father said. “By God’s grace, the court’s decision proved that truth always wins.”

The news of Uzma’s victory spread rapidly in her neighbourhood. Teachers, schoolmates, and local residents celebrated what they called “a triumph of justice and faith.”

The principal of Al-Ittihad Urdu School, where Uzma completed her schooling, praised her resilience: “She was one of our brightest students. Even after losing her sight, she never gave up. This decision is a reminder that disability should never define a person’s potential.”

Her teachers remembered her as a hardworking and humble student who always inspired others. “Uzma’s story will motivate many children facing similar challenges,” said a teacher, adding that “she has set an example for the entire community.”

Legal experts believe the judgment has far-reaching implications. It reaffirms that persons with disabilities must be treated with dignity and that bureaucratic obstacles cannot override constitutional and human rights.

Advocate Rahul Bajaj, who represented Uzma, said, “This verdict has clarified that once a person is certified as disabled, they should not be made to undergo endless scrutiny. The system must trust official certification and respect the law.”

The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, ensures that individuals with disabilities enjoy equality and non-discrimination in education, employment, and public life. Yet, as Uzma’s case shows, many still face unnecessary hurdles.

“This judgment will hopefully make institutions more sensitive,” Bajaj said. “It’s a reminder that education is a right, not a privilege, and disability should never become a reason for exclusion.”

For Uzma and her family, this moment represents years of struggle, sleepless nights, and unwavering faith. As her father put it, “We prayed every day for justice. Today, we feel proud that our daughter has shown what courage really means.”

Her story, now celebrated by students and activists alike, stands as a beacon of hope — not only for disabled learners but also for every Indian Muslim family that values education as both a right and a duty.

In the words of Uzma herself: “I want to become a doctor to serve those who suffer, just as I did. Disability can’t stop dreams — only doubt can.”

source: http://www.clarionindia.net / Clarion India / Home> Editor’s Pick> India> Indian Muslim / by Team Clarion / October 13th, 2025

Teen Karate Champion from Mumbai Breaks Barriers and Stereotypes with Asia Cup Gold

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Mumbai, MAHARASHTRA :

Education Today / Times of India Oct 08, 2025 / 208 Views

In a modest karate training hall inside Nagpada Neighbourhood House NGO in Mumbai, one teenager’s sharp punches and swift footwork command immediate attention. Akku Sarah Shabbir, a 15-year-old karate student and Class 11 commerce student at Maharashtra College, has become a symbol of pride for her community after winning gold medals at both the District Sports Organisation (DSO) competition and the Asia Cup held at Andheri Sports Complex.

Organised by the Asian Shito-Ryu Sports Karate-Do Association, the Asia Cup saw participation from countries like India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Malaysia. Sarah clinched her gold by defeating a tough Sri Lankan opponent—solidifying her status as a rising star in the sport.

A Champion in the Making

Sarah’s achievements have made her a mini-celebrity not just in her karate club, but also in her college and in the Mumbai Central neighbourhood, where she lives with her family. Despite following a traditional lifestyle—wearing a hijab like most girls in her community when outdoors—Sarah is clear-eyed and focused about her sporting ambitions.

“My family, friends, and neighbours are happy I got gold medals in back-to-back competitions,” said Sarah, modest about her success but aware of its growing significance.

Her father, Shabbir Akku, a perfumer by profession, has supported her from the beginning. “We are religious, but I didn’t stop Sarah when she said she wanted to join a karate club,” he said, highlighting a shift in perception among parents in conservative communities.

Breaking Stereotypes and Inspiring Change

Sarah’s achievement has stirred conversations and pride within her community and beyond. Congress MLA Amin Patel, who recently felicitated her, emphasised the broader social impact:

“Muslims are often blamed for not encouraging their daughters to go out and make a career in games and sports. Sarah’s success punctures this stereotype. We will do whatever we can to encourage such budding sporting talents.”

For many community leaders, Sarah’s story is about more than just sport. Asif Farooqui, Congress general secretary and a court member at Aligarh Muslim University and Jamia Millia Islamia, expressed how symbolic her victory is:

“This young girl from Mumbai Central has made us all proud with her achievement in Karate. Her dedication and spirit are truly inspiring. The world is changing fast—our girls see everything happening around them and are becoming more aware, strong, and determined. It’s wonderful to see this new confidence, especially among Muslim girls, who are proving that with opportunity and encouragement, they can shine in every sphere.”

The Coach Behind the Confidence

Sarah’s journey wouldn’t be possible without the guidance of her coach, Salahuddin Khan, who has been instrumental in training hundreds of students—many of them girls—from 25 different schools across the city.

Khan sees Sarah as part of a larger transformation happening in traditionally conservative pockets:

“I train students at 25 schools and the majority of my students are Muslim girls. I see a positive change in the attitude of parents. They are increasingly aware of the benefits of Karate and why girls need to learn it.”

He also credited Shama Taraporewala, the former principal of an Anjuman-I-Islam school, for supporting and encouraging students to take up martial arts and other empowering activities.

Karate as a Tool for Empowerment

For Sarah, karate isn’t just about medals—it’s about self-confidence and safety. “Earlier, I was a bit timid and shy to converse with strangers. Now, I am confident of tackling anyone who tries to misbehave with me,” she shared, showing just how transformative the discipline has been in her life.

Her words reflect a growing realisation among girls and their families about the practical benefits of martial arts, especially in urban settings where issues of safety and harassment are real concerns.

Looking Ahead

With gold medals already to her name and community support backing her, Sarah’s future looks promising—not just as an athlete, but as a role model for young girls across India. Her journey from a shy teenager to an Asia Cup champion is a story of resilience, cultural balance, and empowerment through sport. As more girls like Sarah step onto the mat and into the limelight, they are not just winning matches—they are shattering outdated narratives, proving that faith, tradition, and ambition can coexist, and that every girl deserves the chance to dream—and fight—for her future.

source: http://www.educationtoday.co / Education Today / Home> News / October 08th, 2025