Tag Archives: Muslims of India – Positive News

Taxi Driver’s Daughter Iqra Wins Gold Medal in Maharashtra Medical Exams

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Nashik, MAHARASHTRA :

A Muslim girl from Nashik tops the university in audiology and speech therapy, thanks to hard work, parental support and help from MESCO Educational Trust

New Delhi / Mumbai :

A young Muslim girl from a low-income family in Nashi has brought pride to her community by topping her university exams. Ansari Iqra Marzban, daughter of a taxi driver, secured the highest marks in the audiology and speech therapy course at the Maharashtra University of Health Sciences (MUHS). She was awarded the gold medal for her outstanding performance.

“I had never imagined I would be the university topper. It’s only because of my parents’ duas (prayers) and the help I received that I reached here,” Iqra told Clarion India over the phone.

Iqra comes from a simple home where her father, Marzban Ansari, drives a taxi to support the family. Despite financial struggles, Iqra worked hard and refused to give up on her dream of becoming a medical professional.

She completed her SSC from Anjuman Islam Begum Sharifa Kalsekar Girls English High School and her HSC from Peace Science College in Dadar. Though she failed to clear the NET entrance exam on her first try, she did not lose hope. On her second attempt, she scored 486 marks and gained admission to Topiwala National Medical College (Nair Hospital) in Mumbai.

Her father was overcome with emotion when he learned of her success.

“I had tears in my eyes when I heard she topped the university. We couldn’t afford the course, but Iqra insisted on continuing her education. She’s our pride,” he said.

Iqra’s achievement also shows the silent but strong role of Muslim organisations that help students in need. After getting admission, Iqra faced a major problem — a lack of funds for her studies. That is when MESCO Educational Trust came forward and paid for all her education expenses.

“I had lost hope, but when MESCO came forward, it felt like Allah had opened a door for me,” Iqra said with emotion.

A MESCO official said, “Iqra is one of hundreds of students we help every year. Her achievement proves that with a little help, our children can do wonders.”

Iqra scored 950 out of 1,200 marks in her first and second semester exams — the highest in the state. She received the gold medal and praise from her teachers and classmates alike.

Dr Shaikh Aamir, a faculty member at Nair Hospital, said, “Iqra is a dedicated and humble student. Despite all odds, she kept performing well in class and in exams. We’re proud to have her.”

Iqra’s story is important at a time when Muslims often face discrimination or are shown negatively. Her success proves that Muslim girls can do well when they get the right support.

Iqra had a message for other girls facing struggles: “Don’t give up. Work hard, pray regularly, and look for help from the right places. Allah will make a way.”

She also said more awareness is needed about support systems in the Muslim community. “Many people don’t even know that groups like MESCO are ready to help. Our people should come forward and ask for help when needed,” she added.

Prof Azra Fatima, a social activist and educationist, praised Iqra’s success. “Iqra’s victory is a strong reply to those who say Muslim girls are not interested in education. It’s not interest that’s lacking, it’s opportunity.”

Now, Iqra plans to continue studying and work in speech therapy to help children with speech problems. But for many, her biggest achievement is the inspiration she gives to other Muslim girls.

“We didn’t have money, but we had faith. And today that faith has brought us respect,” said her father.

Iqra’s gold medal is more than a personal victory. It is proof of what Muslim youth can achieve with faith, family support, and community help.

source: http://www.clarionindia.net / Clarion India / Home> Editor’s Pick> India> Indian Muslims / by Mohammad Bin Ismail / June 19th, 2025

From Orphanage to IAS: Abdul Nasser of Kerala Overcomes Poverty, Hardship

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Thalassery (Kannur District), KERALA :

Abdul Nasser’s childhood in orphanages and years of working multiple jobs show his courage and determination. His phenomenal rise proves that dedication can defeat all obstacles

New Delhi :

Abdul Nasser’s life began in the modest town of Thalassery in Kerala’s Kannur district. His early years were shadowed by tragedy when his father passed away when Nasser was only five years old. This loss pushed the family into severe financial difficulties. His mother, striving to make ends meet, took on various jobs to feed her children, but the hardship was such that Nasser and his siblings had to spend a large part of their childhood in orphanages.

Nasser spent about 13 years in various orphanages across Kerala. Despite the challenges of living without parental support and the difficulties of orphanage life, he never lost his desire to learn. At times, he ran away from these institutions, but the pull of education and a better future brought him back each time.

Speaking about his early struggles, Nasser once said, “I never allowed my circumstances to define me. Each time I faced hardship, I reminded myself that education was my way out.”

While still a child, Abdul Nasser took on multiple jobs to support his education and ease his family’s burden. When he was just ten, he began working as a cleaner in a local hotel. His hard work earned him additional responsibilities, and soon he was also helping as a supplier at the same hotel. To raise more funds for his studies, he also distributed newspapers, took up tuitions, and worked as a phone operator.

This early experience of juggling work and education shaped Nasser’s character and showed his commitment to personal growth. “Every job I did was a step towards my dream. I never allowed fatigue or failure to stop me,” he explained in a recent interview.

Despite these difficulties, Nasser’s dedication to education remained strong. He completed his graduation at a government college in Thalassery, a significant achievement for someone from his background. Determined to further his knowledge, he earned a postgraduate degree in 1994.

Education was not just a personal achievement for him but also a beacon of hope for those in similar difficult situations. His academic success inspired many young people in Kerala facing financial or family hardships.

After completing his postgraduate degree, Nasser entered the Kerala Health Department as a government employee. His sincerity, hard work, and dedication quickly became apparent to his superiors. He earned respect and opportunities through his honest approach to public service.

In 2006, Nasser took the Kerala State Civil Services Examination. His success led to his appointment as Deputy Collector, an important administrative post. His work was marked by sensitivity and a focus on social welfare, which earned him special recognition. In 2015, he was named the best Deputy Collector in Kerala, a clear sign of his dedication and impact.

Traditionally, entry into the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) requires passing the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) examination, considered one of the most difficult exams in India. However, Abdul Nasser’s journey took a different path.

Because of his consistent performance, leadership skills, and administrative ability, the Kerala government promoted him to the IAS cadre in 2017 without requiring the UPSC exam. This rare achievement highlights the respect he had earned within the government.

“This promotion showed me that honest work and dedication can break barriers. It was a moment of great pride not just for me but for all those who struggle silently,” Nasser said.

After becoming an IAS officer, Abdul Nasser was appointed to key roles, including Kollam District Collector and Housing Commissioner in the Kerala Government. In these positions, he continued to serve the public with the same passion and commitment that had defined his career.

Nasser’s life story is more than just personal success. It sends a powerful message to all young people facing difficulties: with determination and hard work, one can rise above any circumstance.

People who know Abdul Nasser well speak highly of his journey and character. A fellow officer commented, “Nasser’s rise is an example of true grit and dedication. His background shows how difficult it is to succeed, yet he has done it with humility and hard work.”

A local social worker added, “His life encourages so many children who have lost their families or face poverty. He proves that where there is will, there is a way.”

Abdul Nasser’s story stands out because it breaks common stereotypes about who can succeed in the Indian civil service. Coming from a background without financial support or family guidance, many would have given up. Instead, Nasser found ways to keep moving forward.

In a society where many young people struggle to access education and opportunities, Nasser’s life offers hope and inspiration.

“I want every child growing up in hardship to know that their past does not determine their future. Keep working, keep believing,” he said.

source: http://www.clarionindia.net / Clarion India / Home> Editor’s Pick> India> Indian Muslims / by Team Clarion / June 20th, 2025

Assam: 2 Hafiz-e-Quran from Assam on their way to become doctors

Amazing Feats, Community Involvement / Social Issues, Education, Education - Gold Medallists, Toppers, Merits, Achievers (wef. June 12th, 2023), Education- Excellence, Coaching, Training, Tutorials (wef. Feb 09th, 2024), , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

ASSAM :

Hafiz Huzaifa Laskar (right) and Hafiz Momtazul Hassan Choudhury

Most people have a misconception that students of madrasa can only become Hafiz or Maulana. Breaking this myth two Hafiz-e-Quran (Degree in memorizing Quran) in Assam have cracked the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test 2025, (NEET) examinations, 2025, and are on their way to joining Medical college to fulfill their dream of becoming doctors.

Hafiz Momtazul Hassan Choudhury and Hafiz Huzaifa Laskar proved that one can become a doctor even after enrolling themselves in a Madrasa.

Thanking his parents and teachers, Momtazul Hassan Choudhury said: “If anyone works selflessly behind their children’s success, it is their parents. At first, when I was weak in studies and did not even know the basic formulae of Mathematics, my brothers Noor Ahmed and Anwar Hussain Laskar helped me.”

Hafiz Huzaifa with other successful candidates of Ajmal Super40’s andd their guardians and Ajmal Foundation officials

“I want to go further. I want to crack higher examinations. Please pray for me. And I will work tirelessly to be successful,” he added.

Momtazul Hassan Choudhury took the NEET examination after attending coaching classes at the Anfar Super 50 at Hojai in central Assam. This is the second year of the center preparing students for the NEET examination.

This year, Momtazul Hassan Choudhury and seven other students from the centre have cleared the NEET examinations.

Maulana Mustaq Anfar, founder of the coaching center had waived off the fee for Hafiz Momtazul Hassan Choudhury.

On the other hand, Hafiz Huzaifa Laskar of Ganirgram Shantipur in Katigora area of the Cachar district wrote the NEET examinations after preparing at the Ajmal Super 40, another Hojai-based coaching institute. Huzaifa Laskar, son of Abdullah Laskar and Fatima Bilkis Laskar, cleared the NEET with distinction with 547 marks. Huzaifa’s brother Muyaz Laskar recently cracked the JEE examination and is studying at NIT Silchar.

Hafiz Huzaifa Laskar being felicitated along with other successful NEET at Ajmal Super40 in Hojai

Talking to Awaz –The Voice, Islamic scholar Maulana Nurul Amin Qasimi said: “One can pursue general education along with madrassa education. People may not have understood this. Those who want to study for Hafiz, they enroll themselves in madrassas after studying general school till class five or six. A good student completes the Hafiz course in three years. He also pursues general education alongside the standard of Class IX. Once they clear Hafiz, they are promoted to Class IX where they are registered for the High School Leaving Certificate examinations and they concentrate on the rest of their general education from there.”

“There are many examples of students educated in madrasas who have secured good jobs or got good positions in society. So, nowadays people are understanding it and preparing accordingly to become doctors, engineers, professors, etc after completing Hafiz or Maulana courses in madrassas,” Qasimi added.

A total of 22,76,069 students from across India applied for the NEET UG examination this year out of which 22,09,318 took the examinations. 12,36,531 students emerged successful in the examination.

Mohammad Musa Kalim of Assam secured the All India 509th rank in the NEET 2025 examination. Musa Kalim has topped the list of students in Assam. Musa Kalim secured the 99.97 percentile.

From Assam, 41,848 candidates wrote the examination in 2025 and 19,809 cleared it.

source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Story / by Ariful Islam, Guwahati / June 20th, 2025

A Madrasa Like No Other: Inside India’s First Inclusive Madrasa for the Deaf, Mute and Blind

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Pune, MAHARASHTRA :

Students at Jamia Abdullah Ibne Umme Maktoom, India’s first inclusive madrasa for differently-abled children in Pune, Maharashtra, walk in a queue as they enter the Vision School campus. The madrasa provides free Islamic and contemporary education to mute, deaf and visually impaired students from 17 states across India.

In Pune, Maharashtra, Jamia Abdullah Ibne Umme Maktoom offers free Islamic and contemporary education to mute, deaf, and blind children from across 17 states—proving that disability is no barrier to dignity, faith, or ambition.

Pune (Maharashtra): 

In a small park in Maharashtra’s Pune, on a Thursday morning in May, a group of well-dressed uniformed students stood barefoot, wearing white skull caps. Many of them were mute or visually impaired. As the national anthem played in the background, the students stood in solemn attention, while others – mute and deaf – used sign language to express the lyrics. It turned the moment into a display of patriotism and unity.

This is the usual beginning of the day at Jamia Abdullah Ibne Umme Maktoom (a religious seminary in Pune), where hundreds of mute, deaf and blind students receive free Islamic and contemporary education.

“It took us years to convince families of the importance of education for their special children,” says Nayeem Ahmad Qasmi, a secretary of the madrasa.

The institution was founded in 2013 with only two children with the vision to uplift differently abled children from across India through inclusive education.

According to the Census of 2011, approximately 2.2% of the population, around 26.8 million people, were identified as living with disabilities.

Female students at Jamia Abdullah Ibne Umme Maktoom in Pune, Maharashtra, offer prayers during school hours. The madrasa currently educates over 70 differently-abled girls – many of whom are mute, deaf or visually impaired – providing them with a safe and inclusive environment for both Islamic and contemporary learning.

Unfortunately, many families abandon differently abled children or keep them confined at home – considering them a burden.

“It is the duty of every person to support differently abled children so they can prove their capabilities,” he adds.

Many students come from rural areas in different states, where families often do not know the value of education or the opportunities available to them.

“Before coming to Jamia, I did not know anything about Islamic and contemporary education,” says 18-year-old Rehan Saleem from Jalgaon in Maharashtra.

Many students have received opportunities to present their skills on different platforms across India. Several have represented their school and secured positions in various sectors.

“By the grace of God, I have completed the Hifz-e-Quran (memorisation of the entire holy Quran) at this Jamia and got the opportunity to perform Umrah,” says Rehan.

Students at Jamia Abdullah Ibne Umme Maktoom in Pune attend a classroom session where they receive both Islamic and contemporary education, guided by their teacher.

Today, the Jamia hosts 210 mute, deaf and blind students from 17 states across India. The seminary provides free education from Grade 1 to Grade 12, including subjects like science, computers, Islamic studies and advanced education.

Many students have gone on to study at various universities and colleges. For those unable to attend in person, the madrasa has launched an online education programme. Children here are provided with education, food, accommodation and even uniforms free of cost.

“Our mission is to see these children represent the country on every platform one day,” says Qasmi.

Despite the struggle, they have succeeded in building a thriving institution. In 2021, the madrasa launched separate sections for mute, blind and deaf women to ensure inclusive learning environments. Women’s education is just as important as men’s, and this initiative reflects that commitment.

Mubashira Sadiya Khan, who teaches specially abled girls at the madrasa, says, “Women’s education is equally important as male education. These girls are usually occupied with household work at their homes, but we are giving them better education and showing them the purpose of life.”

A young visually impaired student sits attentively in class, beside a Braille slate and stylus used for writing. At Jamia Abdullah Ibne Umme Maktoom, visually impaired children are given tools and support to receive religious and formal education in an inclusive environment.

Since safety is a major concern for women in the country, the madrasa has provided separate rooms for them, with all female helpers to ensure a secure learning environment.

Mubashira adds, “Usually, women are not safe in the country, but here we have created a safe space where they can learn and grow with confidence.”

Despite progress in education, children with disabilities in India often remain invisible – excluded from schools, denied opportunities and treated as burdens. Many end up begging or isolated at home, not by choice, but because society offers them no alternatives.

“We often see them begging on the roads, not because they want to, but because the society has failed to give them a chance,” says Qasmi.

Students in uniform attend class at Jamia Abdullah Ibne Umme Maktoom in Pune, where multiple sessions are held simultaneously in a shared hall to support inclusive learning.

The Jamia has been working to ensure that students with disabilities receive quality education, access to proper infrastructure and opportunities to engage in play and creative activities on campus. Its vision is to provide them with equal opportunities so they can compete and thrive like any other student.

“Our goal was simple – give them dignity, knowledge and a future,” Qasmi explains.

The Jamia is already offering digital learning tools, smart boards and inclusive facilities to ensure that the students receive a modern and accessible education. The institution continues to innovate and expand its reach through technology and tailored teaching methods.

“We have introduced smart boards, digital tools and inclusive classrooms because every child no matter their ability deserves access to quality, modern education,” says Qasmi.

In the current political climate in India, the Muslim community has often been portrayed in a negative light, and madrasa education is frequently misunderstood or dismissed. Despite these challenges, Jamia Abdullah Ibne Umme Maktoom continues to provide quality Islamic and contemporary education to differently-abled children, aiming to empower them with knowledge and confidence.

source: http://www.twocircles.net / TwoCircles.net / Home> Disability / by Suhail Bhat, TwoCircles.net / June 21st, 2025

Lubna Naseer Creates History with First Gold for J&K at National Taekwondo Championship

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Churmujroo Village (Beerwah, Budgam), JAMMU & KASHMIR :

Photo Credit: X.Com

Budgam/Dehradun :

In a historic moment for Jammu and Kashmir, Lubna Naseer, a young Taekwondo athlete from Churmujura village in Beerwah, Budgam, has clinched the first-ever gold medal for the Union Territory at the 4th Cadet & Junior National Taekwondo Championship 2025, held in Dehradun, reported the Brighter Kashmir.

Representing the Khelo India Taekwondo Centre under the Jammu & Kashmir Sports Council, Lubna showcased an exceptional performance, defeating top contenders from Gujarat, Delhi, and Madhya Pradesh. In the finals, she delivered a clean sweep against Haryana, securing a flawless victory that highlighted her dominance on the national stage.

Lubna’s journey to the top was anything but easy. Battling a recent injury, she continued training under the dedicated mentorship of her coach, Rohit Sharma. Her perseverance and resilience have earned her praise from sports officials and admiration from across the region.

“This gold medal is not just mine—it belongs to my coach, my parents, my school, and the entire Jammu and Kashmir,” Lubna said, dedicating her win to everyone who supported her.

Looking ahead, the young athlete now aims to represent India in the Asian Games, the World Junior Championships, and eventually, the Olympics. Lubna has also appealed for enhanced sports infrastructure in Budgam, urging authorities to invest in the potential of Kashmiri youth.

Her victory not only marks a personal achievement but also serves as an inspiration for aspiring athletes in the Valley. Lubna Naseer is now a beacon of hope and pride for Jammu and Kashmir, symbolizing what determination and support can achieve.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Latest News> Markers of Excellence / by Radiance News Bureau / June 12th, 2025

Uppinangady student selected for international science fair in Japan

Education, Education - Gold Medallists, Toppers, Merits, Achievers (wef. June 12th, 2023), Inventions, Innovations (wef. Nov 30th, 2021), Karnataka (under research project), Science & Technology, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Uppinangady (Puttur Taluk, Dakshina Kannada District), KARNATAKA :

Uppinangady: 

Abdul Basith, a student from the Government Model Higher Primary School in Uppinangady, has been selected to represent India at an international science fair to be held in Japan.

Basith had earlier participated in the prestigious INSPIRE Awards MANAK competition, organised by the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India. He showcased his science model during the national-level exhibition held at the IIT campus in Delhi. Following this, he has now been chosen for the international-level “Sakura Science Fair” in Japan, providing him with a rare opportunity to present his innovation on a global platform.

The model developed by Basith is aimed at helping individuals with special needs, particularly those who have lost their hands. His innovation has been widely appreciated for its social relevance and practical utility.

Abdul Basith is the son of Ilyas Pasha, a resident of Kadavinabagilu. He is a Class 10 student of Tanveerul Islam Madrasa located at the Malik Dinar Juma Masjid and also serves as the General Secretary of SKSBV Tanveerul Islam Madrasa.

In recognition of his achievement, SKSBV Tanveerul Islam Madrasa, Uppinangady felicitated him at a special event.

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karavali / by Vartha Bharati / June 12th, 2025

Barakah NEET Academy’s first batch clears NEET Exam; several qualify for Govt MBBS seats

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Mangaluru, KARNATAKA :

Mangaluru: 

Barakah NEET Academy, a Mangaluru-based coaching institution, has announced that all 32 students from its first batch have cleared the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET) this year.

According to the academy, 25% of the students have qualified for government MBBS seats, while others have secured eligibility for courses like BDS, BAMS, and other medical programs.

Kausar, a student of the academy, scored 502 marks and emerged as the batch topper. In total, eight students have scored above 460 marks, qualifying for government medical colleges.

The institution, which offers residential NEET coaching along with an Islamic learning environment, said it aims to support students with focused academic guidance and preparation for medical entrance exams.

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karavali / by Vartha Bharati / June 15th, 2025

Reflections on a Mission: A Visit to Vision International Academy, Phulat

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Kodangallur, KERALA / Fulat(Phulat)Village (Muzaffarnagar District), UTTAR PRADESH :

Recently, I had the opportunity to visit Vision International Academy (VIA), situated in the village of Fullat in Muzaffarnagar district, Uttar Pradesh. It was a journey I had long awaited. Spending time with the children there—even briefly—was a moving experience. Before me sat over 300 Huffaz—young children who had committed the Qur’an to memory. But the academy is not merely a Hifz institution. As the name “Vision” suggests, it embodies a deeper insight into human potential, blending spiritual excellence with academic brilliance.

Mammooty Anjukunnu

That evening, while returning to Darul Uloom Deoband, I received a call from Babukka. He sounded emotional. He had called to express his joy—not just about my visit to Vision or meeting the students—but about something much greater. Because what I had visited was not just another educational center. It was a mission. A dream. And behind it stood the journey of a visionary man.

Let me tell you that story.

A man from Kodungallur, Kerala—Ameer Ahmad Babu Manappat—never imagined that his life would take a turn into the field of Islamic education. A former student of Aligarh Muslim University, he was first struck by the concept of Hifz during a visit to Delhi. Intrigued, he began exploring madrasas in Saharanpur, Deoband, and surrounding areas of North India. He wanted to understand the intellectual capacity of Huffaz. People had told him these children possessed extraordinary memory and brilliance.

However, while interacting with them, he found something amiss. These bright children, despite having memorized the entire Qur’an, were often unaware of the world outside. And he, in turn, was a stranger to theirs. This encounter exposed a painful reality: two different worlds existed—and there was a vast, unbridged distance between them.

In North India, the term “madrasa” is broad and includes Hifz centers, Arabic colleges, and basic religious schools. Many children are enrolled in such madrasas without access to formal education. They might learn basic arithmetic or science, but there’s little focus on academic rigor or integration. Most teachers remain confined to their own disciplines. The idea of combining Qur’anic and modern education barely exists.

Ameer Babu, grandson of Kerala’s renowned Muslim reformer Manappat Kunhahammad Haji, felt a growing sense of responsibility. He believed that Huffaz—gifted with sharpened intellect and memory—deserved access to high-quality general education. Their potential, he thought, could be channeled for the upliftment of society and the community.

He spent months researching and, with experts, developed an innovative bridge course—an academic fast-track that compresses eight years of schooling into one. After two more years, students would be ready for the 10th-grade public examination.

Many doubted his vision. He met numerous religious scholars and explained the idea, but most dismissed it. “We already teach school subjects,” they would say. “What more do you want?”

In reality, over 35,000 Huffaz graduate annually from madrasas in Uttar Pradesh alone. Yet less than 10% of them appear for the 10th-grade board exams. Most do not pursue further education. Many end up in manual labor, small trades, or low-income jobs.

Still, Ameer Babu did not abandon his mission.

His journey brought him to Fullat, near the UP-Delhi border, home to a vast madrasa campus named Jamia Shah Waliullah, founded by Maulana Kaleem Siddiqui, a renowned scholar and spiritual leader. The madrasa is located in the birthplace of Imam Shah Waliullah Dehlawi, one of the greatest Islamic scholars in Indian history.

When Ameer Babu shared his vision with the people there, he was told, “Let Hazrat come, he will help you.” Soon, Hazrat arrived—dressed in white, with a radiant smile and graceful demeanor. It was Maulana Kaleem Siddiqui himself.

After listening carefully, Maulana asked Ameer Babu:

“Ameer Saab, what do you want?

Land?
Buildings?
Some support?”

Then he stood up, led him to a nearby three-acre plot of land adjacent to the madrasa, and asked: “Is this enough?”

That was the beginning.

In August 2017, Ameer Babu admitted 76 Huffaz in the first batch. The results were astounding. These students, with their incredible memory skills, were able to learn up to 1,500 words a week. They completed an entire year’s academic syllabus in just 13 to 18 days, using innovative learning techniques. Simultaneously, their Qur’anic memorization was maintained through a dedicated revision system (daura).

Under the Open School system, the first batch achieved a 92% pass rate in the 10th-grade board exams. Encouraged, they transitioned to the more rigorous UP State Board—and the pass rate rose to 96%. Then, Vision shifted to the CBSE curriculum, and the first batch passed with a 100% success rate.

Classes were expanded to include Plus One and Plus Two, with both Science and Humanities streams. Today, more than 300 Huffaz are enrolled at VIA.

Among its graduates:

  • 2 are now in medical colleges
  • 7 in engineering colleges
  • 8 in law schools
  • Over 50 in various Arts & Science colleges

Vision’s students now come from across seven Indian states. They are fluent in English, academically competitive, and grounded in Qur’anic values.

Last year, during Ramadan, 235 VIA students led Taraweeh prayers as Imams in 17 Indian states, including Kerala—showcasing both their spiritual and intellectual discipline.

Some of these students have now joined the SAFI Institute in Kerala, where Ameer Babu serves as Vice Chairman—an ongoing experiment in integrated education. His goal is to nurture a generation of confident, competent Muslim youth who carry the Qur’an in their hearts and knowledge in their minds.

During my visit, Babukka shared with me his dream—to build 100 such institutions across India for Huffaz. I responded with a story.

In 1992, Balbir Singh, a leader in the mob that demolished the Babri Masjid, returned to his village a hero. But his father rejected him. His wife left. Disgraced and broken, he eventually arrived at Maulana Kaleem Siddiqui’s khanqah in Fullat. There, he broke down and wept. He embraced Islam and became known as Mohammad Aamir.

Following Maulana’s advice, Aamir joined Tablighi Jamaat for four months. Later, he told Maulana:

“Hazrat, I was one of those who demolished Babri Masjid. I must build 100 mosques to atone.”

Before his death in 2021, Mohammad Aamir fulfilled that dream.

Now, from the same khanqah, Ameer Babu has set out on his own mission—to build 100 schools for Huffaz.

When Maulana Kaleem Siddiqui’s dawah efforts began shaking the status quo, the authorities arrested him under fabricated charges. That is a different story altogether.

But Ameer Babu carries on, undeterred.

He serves— the Qur’an, and those who carry it within.

source: http://www.muslimmirror.com / Muslim Mirror / Home> Education> Positive Story / by Mammooty Anjukunnu / June 07th, 2025

MPJ Telangana Helps Secure Bail for 57 First-Time Offenders, Extends Aid to Families and Prisoners

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TELANGANA :

Hyderabad:

The Movement for Peace & Justice (MPJ) Telangana has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting justice and rehabilitation by providing monetary and legal assistance to first-time Muslim offenders seeking bail across various jails in Telangana. In the year 2024–2025 alone, MPJ facilitated the release of 57 such prisoners.

The organisation, which has consistently worked to aid the underprivileged segments of society, specifically limits its legal and financial support to individuals charged for the first time with non-heinous crimes. Those involved in grave offenses such as rape, murder, or digital financial frauds are excluded from MPJ’s assistance programs, irrespective of their first-time offender status.

In addition to helping individuals secure bail, MPJ Telangana previously extended support to prisoners who had completed their sentences but remained behind bars due to an inability to pay court-imposed penalties.

Beyond legal aid, MPJ Telangana has also taken several humanitarian steps. The organisation distributed general knowledge books, Islamic literature in Urdu and Telugu, stationery, and sports items to inmates. Notably, educational materials were also provided for children living with their incarcerated mothers at the Chanchalguda Special Prison for Women.

Expanding its outreach, MPJ Telangana provided general aid to 121 underprivileged families, educational support to children of 41 daily wage laborers, and medical aid to 59 impoverished families in the state.

MPJ Telangana continues to serve as a vital support system for the marginalized, promoting both justice and rehabilitation with dignity and compassion.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Latest News / by Reliance News Bureau / June 11th, 2025

‘Yahya Ali’ streets in Chennai: From street name to gobbledygook

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Chennai, TAMIL NADU :

The correct name is Yahya Ali Streets – 1, 2 and 3, and they take their names from Justice Yahya Ali of the High Court of Madras.  | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

The street sign says it all – Yahali 3rd Street. There are three of them, all connecting Anna Salai with G.N. Chetty Road, at Teynampet, very close to Semmozhi Poonga. Only Yahali is not the correct name. Google Maps has compounded matters further. You need to search under Yaya Hali Street if you need to find it. The correct name is Yahya Ali Streets – 1, 2, and 3, and they take their names from Justice Yahya Ali of the High Court of Madras.

The learned judge is not in public memory. When I spoke to a friend on this, he said that the Internet has no reference to such a judge, and I guess that would mean such a person did not exist. But he did. And when he died as a sitting judge in 1949, the High Court convened to condole his passing. The brilliant barrister and then Public Prosecutor V.L. Ethiraj led the mourners. He dwelt on the “keen intellect, great learning, profound human understanding and exquisite courtesy we found in that frail figure.” But to get full biographical details, we need to turn to the speech of an illustrious contemporary, V.C. Gopalaratnam, who spoke on behalf of the Madras Advocates Association.

Yahya Ali was born in August 1893 in Nellore, his father serving as Assistant Secretary in the Finance Department of the Nizams of Hyderabad. He graduated in History and Economics from the Presidency College in 1916 and then qualified in Law. He set up practice in Nellore and became Government Pleader and Public Prosecutor. He was a member of the Madras Legislative Council as well. In between, he became Chairman of Nellore Municipality, his election being testimony to the regard he enjoyed from all residents of the town. It was a place notorious for communal tension, and being a Hindu majority, it was considered impossible for a Muslim to win the ballot.

In 1926, Yahya Ali became District Judge, being posted in that capacity to various parts of Madras Presidency. His specialisation in matters concerning finance led to his being appointed by the then Imperial Government in 1942 as the Chairman of the Appellate Income Tax Tribunal where he equipped himself “with a thorough and exhaustive knowledge of Income Tax Law and Procedure.” In 1945 he became a judge of the High Court of Madras. It is interesting to note that he sat in judgment till the last day of his life, taking ill on April 21, 1949, and passing away the next day.

While these details are from Gopalaratnam’s speech during the condolence meet, we learn some more from what the then Chief Justice P.V. Rajamannar had to say. Yahya Ali, he noted, was a connoisseur of Telugu poetry and “he was a deeply cultured person – culture with the best ingredients of what I may call Moghul culture – urbanity, catholicity and instinctive love of all that was beautiful.”

What was his link to Teynampet? He was at the time of his death Mutawalli (trustee or guardian) of the Teynampet Mosque in which his family had taken a deep interest. It was also in the precincts of this mosque that Yahya Ali was buried. And eventually, a locality was named after him. And from there, the name has morphed phonetically as it were, to what it is now with street names changing accordingly.

I wish the Corporation would be more careful with street signs. We have suffered enough mutilation with truncation of many names to initials, morphing of others, and of course, name changes at the drop of a hat.

source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> Cities> Chennai>My Madras / by Sriram V / June 11th, 2025