A 21-year-old third year student pursuing MBBS in UKraine shared a video with her family about a group staying in the bunker of their college. Muskaan Firoz Shaikh contacted the Indian embassy for help but they asked to stay here at the same place and said they will reach.
Muskaan’s father Firoz who is working with the Bhiwandi-Nizampur city municipal corporation claims the family is tensed as the attack is going on in the nearby areas.
“She is staying inside the bunker of Bhuko Vibiyan University in Ukraine. Muskaan said there are around 150 students inside who are from across the countries. While, around 7 of them are from Delhi and Gujarat,” said Asma Shaikh, her mother who are from Padgha in Bhiwandi.
Asma through a video had appealed to the Indian government to help her daughter who is stuck inside a bunker.
Navid Shaikh, her maternal brother, claims Muskaan had approached the Indian embassy for help. “But in reply they told her to stay at the same place for a while. Till the help reached them as they were on the way. Muskaan is in regular touch with her parents and is scared as the attacks are going on in the nearby area,” added Naved.
Muskaan had shared a video with her family which shows the person shooting it. Later, the camera reached a room where three girls including Muskan were seen holding a Persian cat. The video was shared by muskaan to confirm the parents about her safety.
Naved Shaikh said they have been staying in the bunker for the last three days. “Usually they are at home and cook food. As soon as the siren buzzes they get inside the bunker. They either stay for three hours or full night in the bunker. It depends when the siren buzzes again to give a signal about the safety and they move out. But they are staying in with fear and threat to life and need immediate help. Just like others our sister too can reach home safely if the Indian government helps them,” added Naved Shaikh.
source: http://www.freepressjournal.in / The Free Press Jounal / Home> Mumbai / by Faisal Tandel / February 22nd, 2022
The Malegaon Secular Front of ISLAM Party and the Samajwadi Party, secured the mayor and deputy mayor posts in the civic body, while AIMIM and BJP stayed away from voting
Malegaon :
Malegaon in Maharashtra has entered a new phase in local politics after the mayor and deputy mayor elections brought a clear win for the ISLAM Party–Samajwadi Party alliance, known as the Malegaon Secular Front. Sheikh Nasreen Khalid was elected mayor, while Shan-e-Hind Nihal Ahmed was chosen as deputy mayor on Saturday.
The election took place in the 84-member Malegaon Municipal Corporation, where 43 votes were needed to secure a majority. With the backing of the Congress, the Malegaon Secular Front reached the required number and took control of the civic body.
Sheikh Nasreen Khalid received 43 votes in the mayoral election. These included 35 councillors from the ISLAM Party, five from the Samajwadi Party, and three from the Congress. Her nearest rival, Shiv Sena candidate Lata Ghodke from the Eknath Shinde group, managed to secure only 18 votes.
All India Majlis Ittehad-ul Muslimeen’s (AIMIM) 21 councillors and the BJP’s two councillors stayed away from the voting process. The BJP, which is part of the ruling alliance at the Centre and in Maharashtra, did not vote in support of the Shiv Sena candidate, dealing a setback to the Shinde faction in Malegaon.
Speaking after her election, Mayor Sheikh Nasreen Khalid said, “This victory belongs to the people of Malegaon. We will work for justice, development, and equal respect for every section of society.”
In the deputy mayor election, Samajwadi Party councillor Shan-e-Hind Nihal Ahmed defeated Shiv Sena’s Advocate Nilesh Kakade by the same margin. Nihal Ahmed secured 43 votes, while Kakade received 18. AIMIM again stayed away, and the BJP did not take part in the vote.
After her win, Deputy Mayor Nihal Ahmed said, “Malegaon has shown faith in secular values. Our duty is to serve the city honestly and listen to the voice of the common people.”
The municipal elections were held on 15 January. Results showed the ISLAM Party emerging as the single largest party with 35 seats. AIMIM won 21 seats, Shiv Sena secured 18, the Samajwadi Party five, Congress three, and the BJP two.
The ISLAM Party was founded by former Congress MLA Sheikh Asif Sheikh Rashid on 20 October 2024. In its first civic election, the party succeeded in winning the mayor’s post, marking a strong start in local politics.
District Collector Ayush Prasad conducted the election as the presiding officer. He said, “The mayor and deputy mayor elections were completed in a peaceful and orderly manner.”
For many residents, the result reflects the political strength and unity of Malegaon’s Muslim-majority population and reinforces their role in shaping the city’s democratic future through the ballot box.
source: http://www.clarionindia.net / Clarion India / Home> Editor’s Pick> India> Indian Muslims / by Team Clarion / February 08th, 2026
KUWAIT / Raigarh District (MAHARASHTRA) / New Jersey (U.S.A) :
Kokan’s daughter Lubna Qazi Chaudhry took the oath as Administrative Law Judge in New Jersey with her hand placed on The Holy Quran, pledging to uphold constitutional responsibilities.
Mumbai:
Lubna Qazi, a lawyer originally from Maharashtra’s Raigad district, has created history by taking oath as an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) in the US state of New Jersey, becoming the first Muslim woman to be appointed to this position in the state. The appointment is being widely regarded as a significant milestone for minority representation in the American judiciary.
The oath-taking ceremony was held recently, where Associate Justice Rachel Wainer Apter of the New Jersey Supreme Court administered the oath. On the occasion, Lubna Qazi placed her hand on the Holy Quran and pledged to faithfully discharge her constitutional duties.
The position of Administrative Law Judge holds considerable importance within the American judicial system. ALJs preside over cases involving decisions of government agencies, administrative disputes and public grievances, delivering rulings based on established legal principles.
Lubna Qazi’s Life Journey
Lubna Qazi’s life journey spans multiple countries and cultures. She was born in Kuwait, where she spent her early childhood with her parents. In 1990, during a school vacation, she travelled to the United States. However, following the outbreak of the Gulf War, the family decided to settle there permanently.
Lubna later pursued her education in California, completed her graduation from the University of California, and earned her law degree from Western State University College of Law.
After marrying Ahsan Chaudhry in 2005, Lubna moved to New Jersey, where she served in various government legal positions for nearly two decades. Recognising her extensive legal experience and professional competence, the Governor of New Jersey nominated her for the post of Administrative Law Judge in 2025.
Lubna Qazi is also distinguished for her linguistic abilities. In addition to English, she is fluent in Urdu, Hindi and Konkani, and has working knowledge of Arabic. Committed to preserving cultural and linguistic heritage, she is personally teaching Urdu and Arabic to her two children at home.
Family Feels Honoured
Expressing his pride, Lubna’s father Inayatullah Qazi said that the entire family feels honoured by her achievement. He described the appointment not merely as a position, but the result of years of hard work, sacrifice and prayers.
Speaking to the correspondent, Inayatullah Qazi said that his family hails from Tala taluka of Raigad district in the Konkan region. He completed his education up to Class VI at Jamia Millia Islamia School, Delhi, and his high school education at Anjuman Islam, Mumbai.
After obtaining a degree in Mechanical Engineering from Government College of Engineering, Aurangabad, in 1975, he moved to Kuwait for employment, beginning his career with an air-conditioning company. After working there for fifteen years, he migrated to the United States with a single suitcase following Iraq’s invasion of Kuwait after the Gulf War, as his children were already in the US at the time. He later ensured higher education for all four of his children.
Inayatullah Qazi said that the family’s roots are deeply embedded in Islamic tradition and that Urdu is spoken with pride at home. He added that Lubna completed recitation of the Holy Quran at the age of seven.
He further shared that around five to six generations ago, their ancestors were sent to the Konkan region as Qazis (judicial authorities) to administer justice without discrimination based on religion, caste or race. Although the profession discontinued a few generations ago, he expressed happiness that his daughter has now proudly revived the family’s judicial legacy.
Lubna Qazi is also the granddaughter of Dr Rehana Ahmed, a noted educationist and Executive Chairperson of the Girls’ Board of Anjuman Islam, Mumbai. Dr Ahmed expressed joy over Lubna’s achievement, stating that it serves as a shining example for young women across the community and will inspire girls to pursue higher education and professional careers. She is widely recognised for her dedicated efforts toward the promotion of girls’ education, particularly within the Muslim community.
Meanwhile, several social and legal organisations, including the Asian Pacific American Lawyers Association of New Jersey, have congratulated Lubna Qazi on her appointment. Observers believe that this development marks a significant step forward in strengthening Muslim and minority representation within the American judicial system.
source: http://www.ummid.com / Ummid.com / Home> United States / by Mohiyuddin Altamash / January 30th, 2026
The new Mumbai Municipal Corporation (Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation 2026 or BMC 2026) to have 01 more Muslim corporator as compared to the community’s tally last time.
[Imran Pratapgarhi, Member of Rajya Sabha from Maharashtra and National Chairman Congress Minority Department, leading a rally in support of Congress candidates in Mumbai]
BMC 2026 Final Result:
The new Mumbai Municipal Corporation (Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation 2026 or BMC 2026) to have 01 more Muslim corporator as compared to the community’s tally last time.
A total of 29 Muslims from different parties had won the 2017 BMC elections. As against this, number of Muslims in the Mumbai Mahanagar Palika 2026 is 30, as per the final election result announced by the Maharashtra State Election Commission Saturday.
Of the total 30 Muslim Corporators who have won the 2026 Mumbai Municipal Corporation Elections the maximum 13 are from Congress, 07 are from Asaduddin Owaisi’s All India Majlis e Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM), 03 each are from NCP (Ajit Pawar) and Shiv Sena (UBT), 02 are from Samajwadi Party (SP) and 02 each from Shiv Sena (Eknath Shinde) and NCP (Sharad Pawar).
List of Muslim Corporators in Mumbai Corporation
Following is the party-wise full list of Muslim corporators in Mumbai.
Muslim Corporators of Nationalist Congress Party (NCP Sharad Pawar)
30. Bushra Nadeem Captain Malik (Ward No. 170)
What is important is that the Muslim candidates have won the BMC 2026 elections from all parties – including Congress, AIMIM, Samajwadi Party, NCP (Ajit Pawar), NCP (Sharad Pawar) and also from Shiv Sena (Eknath Shinde) and Shiv Sena (Uddhav Thackeray or UBT).
This is a clear message to the BJP, which because of its communal agenda and hate for Muslims does not give the party tickets to Muslims, and gives an excuse that the community does not vote for it.
Along with the Mumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), civic body elections were also held in 28 other corporations of Maharashtra.
As per the final result announced by the state election commission, out of the total 2,869 seats, the BJP has won 1,420 seats, Shiv Sena (Eknath Shinde) 375, Congress 329, NCP (Ajit Pawar) 175, Shiv Sena (UBT) 160, AIMIM 125, NCP (Sharad Pawar) 40 and MNS just 13 seats. (The result of some seats have not been announced.)
source: http://www.ummid.com / Ummid.com / Home> Maharashtra / by ummid.com news network / January 18th, 2026
Continuing her dream run of academic success, Almas Nazim Syed of Government Medical College Nagpur, crossed yet another milestone by securing the top position in Maharashtra MBBS final exam, bagging 11 gold medals and a scholarship.
Daughter of Dr Syed Nazim, a general practitioner, Almas Nazim Syed, has topped every exam in her career, including the 2009 Maharashtra HSC board exam before the impressive performance in the Maharashtra MBBS final exams.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devenndra Fadnavis in Nashik to address the 14th Convocation of the Maharashtra University Health Sciences (MUHS), felicitated Almas Nazim Syed and also conferred on her citation and gold medals.
Along with Almas Nazim Syed, a total of 7,478 students from different streams of medicine were awarded with the convocation. Of these 71 gold medals were given to the students. Nine students were awarded with Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).
Interestingly, after topping the 2009 HSC exams, Almas Nazim Syed, whose brother was then studying in second year MBBS, had vowed to study medical science with specialisation in gynaecology, and build a hospital for poor people.
“I want to fulfil my mother’s desire that I open a nursing home or a hospital to serve the needy,” she had said.
Almas’ motivation, however, was her grandma Safiya, a writer.
“I wanted to be gynaecologist and open a hospital since I was in class 5. It was prompted by my grandmother telling us one day that she was not able to pursue her dream of opening a nursing home to look after children’s studies,” she said.
A vivid reader of novels, Almas is fully determined to achieve her target.
“Dare to dream. Have passion to fulfill that dream. Be persistent in hard work. Don’t be aimless in life”, were her words after cracking the 2009 HSC exams.
After clearing the MBBS finals and becoming a doctor, it will now be interesting to see how Almas Nazim Syed, married to a politician’s grandson in Akola, fulfils her mother’s desire to open her dream hospital for poor.
source: http://www.ummid.com / Ummid.com / Home> Education & Career / by ummid.com news network / May 27th, 2015
It was a moment of joy and ecstasy for 18 years old Arshiya Choudhari of Solapur when she was announced second topper in Maharashtra state conducted Common Entrance Test MHT-CET 2016 for admissions to Medical courses and can now choose college of her choice for MBBS admission.
The Maharashtra Common Entrance Test (MH CET) exam was held on May 5, 2016 for which results were declared on Wednesday.
A student of A D Joshi College, Arshiya scored 199 marks out of 200 and declared second topper. She has also topped HSC exams in the state this year by scoring 97.85% (636 out of 650 marks).
The feat is very special for Arshiya because she herself prepared for the exam by dedicating 6-7 hours daily for study at home after HSC exams. “I did not join any private classes but relied upon self study at home. I am happy that I could score this much and prove people that private coaching is not always required if you have dedication”, Arshiya told TwoCircles.net.
She is now aiming to complete MBBS course and then she will decide about specialization or masters.
“I want to pursue MBBS from KEM College in Mumbai. After completing degree I will decide whether to go for administrative services or masters”, She added.
However, in any case she wants to connect with the people and serve them. “I am very eager to serve people. I see there are very few Muslim woman doctors and therefore I decided to become a doctor”, she told when asked why she chose to become a doctor.
Speaking with TwoCircles.net Yunus Choudhary, father of Arshiya expressed delight and said she is free to take admission into the college of her choice.
Yunus, who is a Jr. Engineer in water supply department in Solapur told, “I was confident that she will clear CET with excellent marks as she is a hard working girl. I will not restrict her from joining any college for MBBS”.
Nusrat, mother of Arshiya is a practicing doctor and wish to see her daughter serving the community by becoming a doctor. “I want Arshiya to become a successful doctor”, she told.
The Maharashtra Common Entrance Test (MH CET) is an entrance examination conducted by the Directorate of Medical Education and Research with an intention to provide admissions into various graduation courses for Engineering and Medicine streams.
The medical entrance examination has been in news since May 4 when a Supreme Court order made it mandatory for medical aspirants to take the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET). However, following several protests from parents and state education ministers, the President passed an ordinance that reversed the Supreme Court verdict partially.
Therefore for Maharashtra, admissions to medical and dental colleges will be done through the MHT-CET scores for this year.
source: http://www.twocircles.net / TwoCircles.net / Home> India News> Indian Muslim> Women> Youth / by A Mirsab, TwoCircles.net / June 04th, 2016
Awaz-The Voice, through its ‘The Changemakers’ series, has introduced readers to inspiring figures from Uttar Pradesh, Assam, and Jammu & Kashmir.
Starting July 6, we will feature ten remarkable changemakers from Maharashtra.
These individuals not only embody the state’s vibrant and progressive legacy but are also shaping a future that is tolerant, equitable, harmonious, and inclusive.
Working quietly away from the limelight, their impactful contributions are being brought to the public through Awaz-The Voice. Here’s a glimpse into their inspiring journeys.
Dr. Farah Anwar Husain Shaikh
Dr. Farah Anwar Husain Shaikh leads the Mis Farah Charitable Foundation in Pune’s Dapodi, delivering health, education, and disaster relief to communities. Her bold advocacy for Muslim women’s right to pray in mosques challenges deep-rooted traditions, earning her a doctorate in social work and women’s empowerment. Her story is that of the struggle for equality, Farah’s tireless efforts are transforming lives and reshaping Pune’s social landscape, making her a beacon of grassroots change.
Paigambar Shaikh
Rationalist Paigambar Shaikh is redefining tradition with his “Economic Qurbani” initiative from Pune, transforming the Eid al-Adha sacrifice into a force for community growth. By channeling resources into education, microfinance, and health camps, he blends faith with practicality. He is inspired by the Satyashodhak movement. His innovative approach fosters sustainable development and communal harmony in Maharashtra’s far-flung areas, marking him as a visionary changemaker.
Marziya Shanu Pathan
Marziya Shanu Pathan, 24, is an activist. From leading a march for Malala Yusufzai at age 12 to organizing the vibrant Mumbra-Kausa Children’s Festival, she champions women and youth in her township. Her blend of fiery activism and community initiatives is uplifting Mumbra, proving her dedication to a brighter, more inclusive future.
Hazrat Ali Sonikar and Munir Shikalkar
In Sangli’s agricultural heartland, Hazrat Ali Sonikar and Munir Shikalkar are empowering the Muslim community through grassroots activism. Hazrat rallies youth with awareness campaigns and workshops, while Munir bridges gaps with local authorities to secure resources. Their collaborative manifesto, amplifying education and employment, is reshaping the future of the community, showcasing the power of local action.
Sakib Gore
In Badlapur, Maharashtra, Sakib Gore is lighting up lives through his ‘Vision Friend Sakib Gore’ initiative, driven by his grandmother’s struggle with blindness. With a belief that glasses are more than a fashion statement—they’re a lifeline to sight—he’s brought eye exams to 2.6 million people, distributed 1.7 million free spectacles, and facilitated 63,000 free cataract surgeries. His ‘Devabhau’ glasses, priced at just 33 rupees, earned him global acclaim and the ‘System Leader Award’ at a World Summit in Kathmandu. Reinvesting every profit into free glasses for the poor, Sakib’s mission is simple but profound: to lift the visually impaired out of darkness, one pair of eyes at a time.
Sarfaraz Ahamad
Solapur’s Sarfaraz Ahamad, a 41-year-old historian, brings Maharashtra’s Deccan heritage to life through his eight books. His books include the acclaimed Hyder Ali, Tipu Sultan, and The Sultanate-e-Khudadaad. As a founder member of the Ghaziuddin Research Center which promotes objective historical research. His writings in Marathi, Hindi, Urdu, and English captivate readers. Sarfaraz’s work is reviving cultural pride and inspiring a new generation of scholars.
Sabah Khan
Sabah Khan’s NGO Parcham based in Mumbara, empowers girls through football, challenging norms and building confidence among them. Khan, 50, fosters gender equality and religious harmony, securing a dedicated football field and launching the Savitri-Fatima Foundation to support education and economic growth. Sabah’s transformative work offers Mumbra’s youth a vibrant path to self-discovery.
Afroz Shah
Mumbai’s Afroz Shah, a 42-year-old lawyer, turned Versova Beach into the site of the world’s largest clean-up, removing 20 million kilograms of trash. Afroz Shah Foundation now tackles rivers and waste culture, earning him the UN’s ‘Champion of the Earth’ title. From slums to schools, his “dates with the ocean” inspire thousands, proving one man’s grit can spark a movement.
Dr. Sabiha Inamdar
In Nashik, 43-year-old Dr. Sabiha Inamdar, an intimacy and relationship coach, is breaking taboos around sexual wellness. She creates safe spaces for women and couples to discuss intimacy and emotions openly. What makes Dr. Sabiha’s work important is her commitment to normalizing healthy conversations around sex, emotions, and interpersonal connection—especially for women. Her workshops shift mindsets, fostering healthier relationships and emotional well-being across Maharashtra.
Hussain Mansuri
Mumbai’s Hussain Mansuri, a 40-year-old philanthropist with 7.8 million Instagram followers, spreads compassion across the city’s streets. From feeding street kids to caring for stray animals, his quiet acts of kindness, rooted in Islamic values, touch countless lives. Whether delivering meals near Tata Hospital or comforting the grieving,
Hussain’s selfless mission ripples far beyond Mumbai.
source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> The Changemakers / posted by Aasha Khosa, ATV / July 05th, 2025
ACP Rehana Sheikh, who received nearly 150 awards and served across Maharashtra, says she will continue to serve the nation even after retirement
Mumbai/Sangli , MAHARASHTRA :
Rehana Sheikh, Maharashtra’s first Muslim woman police officer, has retired after nearly 36 years of dedicated service. She started her journey as a sub-inspector and retired on 31 May from the post of Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP). At the time of retirement, she was working in the VIP security at Raj Bhavan in South Mumbai.
Governor of Maharashtra CP Radhakrishnan honoured ACP Rehana Sheikh on her retirement. She was recognised not just for her long career but also for her contribution to law enforcement and her trailblazing role as the first Muslim woman in the Maharashtra police force.
Speaking to Clarion India, Rehana Sheikh said, “I was the first Muslim woman to become a police officer in Sangli and Maharashtra. When I applied, 25,000 women took the police recruitment exam. Only 25 were selected and I was the only Muslim woman among them.”
Sheikh, who hails from Sangli, said her father served in the military, but no one in her family had worked in the police before. Her dream began when she was a national-level volleyball player. Watching the TV serial Udhan, which showed a woman police officer, inspired her to serve the country.
“A kabaddi player from our neighbourhood had become a sub-inspector. I had job offers from banks, but my volleyball coach asked me, ‘Do you want to be a clerk or an officer?’ That question changed my life,” she recalled.
Despite social challenges and the fact that a police job was not seen favourably at the time, her family stood by her. Rehana’s journey in the force was marked by both professional achievements and personal hardships.
“Shortly after I joined the force, my father passed away. I had to take care of my mother, younger sister and brothers. Then I got married in 1991, but my husband died in an accident in 1993. My son was very young at that time,” she said.
After her husband’s death, she was transferred to Solapur and later promoted and posted in Kolhapur. She remarried in 2004 and continued her service with dedication in various cities and districts of Maharashtra.
Rehana Sheikh worked during some of the most dangerous times in Mumbai’s history. “When I began my career, the underworld was very strong. Crimes were violent — beatings, murders. Now, the nature of crime has changed. We see more cybercrime and online fraud,” she explained.
She played an active role in many high-profile operations. “I was part of the police team during the Lokhandwala shootout. I was also involved in the search at Arun Gawli’s Dagdi Chawl, where we seized weapons. Those were difficult times, and I believe the new generation will find such work challenging.”
She also spoke about being among the first batch of women allowed to work at police stations. “Earlier, women officers were only posted at airports or less active places. We were the first to be allowed to work in police stations.”
Balancing home and duty has never been easy. “My husband and my colleagues supported me. I had the responsibility of my family and later my in-laws, too. But I managed both because of their support and Allah’s grace,” she said.
During her long career, Rehana Sheikh was honoured with nearly 150 awards. But for her, the real success lies in the lives she touched and the message she now wants to spread.
“My message to women is: be educated and join the police force. Serve the society, the nation and the country. Even after retirement, I want to continue working for the betterment of people,” she said with pride.
ACP Rehana Sheikh’s journey from Sangli to the top ranks of Mumbai’s police force is not only inspiring but also a symbol of determination, courage, and service.
source: http://www.clarionindia.net / Clarion India / Home> India> Indian Muslim / by Team Clarion / June 03rd, 2025
The Muslim girl from a modest middle-class family in the village’s Waja Mohalla tops Mumbai University with 87% in LLB
New Delhi :
In a proud moment for the Muslim community of Sopara, the ancient port and trade centre of Maharashtra, Benji Mehwish Abdul Rehman has etched her name in the annals of history as the first Muslim woman lawyer from the village. Her remarkable achievement includes topping Mumbai University with an outstanding 87% in the LLB examination is a testament to her relentless hard work and dedication.
Mehwish’s journey is not just about academic success but also about breaking social barriers. Coming from a modest middle-class family — her father, Abdul Rehman, works as an electrician — Mehwish’s path was filled with financial challenges. Yet, these hardships never dimmed her spirit or determination to succeed.
“I belong to the middle class. My father is an electrician, and I was aware of this from the beginning, so I always focused on studying hard. To make a unique identity in the society by working hard, that was my motto,” Mehwish told Clarion India over the phone. She recalled how financial struggles made her educational journey tough, but the unwavering support from her family helped her overcome every obstacle. During this time, many problems came up, but with the help of my family, I faced these problems with a smile. In this journey, my grandfather, grandmother and parents always stood by me like a rock. I secured the first position in every class.”
Her academic record speaks for itself: after passing her SSC in 2015 from Anjuman Khairul Islam Urdu High School, with 84%, she continued to shine with 80% in HSC from RB Harris Junior College and 84% in BCom from AE Kalsekar College in 2021. Clearing the bar examination from Viva College, Virar, with 87% (CGPA 9.2), she secured first position in both Mumbai University and Viva College.
Mehwish’s success carries extra significance as it comes from a community often overlooked and sidelined in mainstream narratives. Sopara, a village with deep historical roots, now celebrates this milestone that challenges the stereotypes around Muslim women and their place in education and professional fields.
Mehwish’s grandfather, Benji Rizwan Muhammad, a respected social activist in the region, played a vital role in guiding and encouraging her career choice. “The decision of which field to choose after graduation was difficult for me because all the courses were very expensive. In such a situation, by the grace of Allah Almighty, my grandfather guided me and encouraged me to become a lawyer,” she said.
She also credits the financial help from the Waja Mohalla Juma Masjid Trust and the Sidha Educational, Social and Cultural Organisation. “If these two trusts had not supported me financially by providing scholarships, this success would have been difficult,” she said gratefully.
Abdul Rehman, Mehwish’s father, expressed his pride: “My daughter is committed to discipline in her studies. We always encouraged her and provided her with whatever we could.” The support from the family, often the backbone for Muslim girls pursuing education, is a reminder that strong family encouragement can overcome societal pressures and economic difficulties.
Local social worker Zubair Ahmed Butke praised Mehwish’s achievement. “Mehwish has increased the glory of Sopara village and our Waja Mohalla by passing the bar exam. She is a role model for our community and shows that with hard work and determination, Muslim girls can reach great heights,” he said.
Mehwish now plans to practice law at Vasai Court and is preparing for her LLM. She also aspires to practice in the Bombay High Court, showing ambition that goes beyond personal success, reflecting a commitment to serve and uplift her community through the legal system.
Her story comes at a time when Indian Muslims, especially women, face various challenges related to education, economic opportunities, and social acceptance. Mehwish’s success is a beacon of hope, breaking through the barriers set by a society where many still hold biases and misunderstandings about Muslims, particularly Muslim women.
Her rise is a clear rebuttal to those who underestimate Indian Muslims or limit their potential by social or religious stereotypes. This achievement demands recognition and respect for the many silent struggles Muslim families endure in supporting their daughters’ education and professional dreams.
Community leaders and activists hope Mehwish’s story will inspire more families in Sopara and beyond to invest in girls’ education and help dismantle the barriers that have held back many Muslim girls. It also raises a call for greater institutional support to provide scholarships and opportunities to deserving students from minority communities.
Mehwish’s journey highlights a broader issue: while India prides itself on secularism and equal opportunity, the lived reality for many Muslims is often marked by discrimination and neglect. Success stories like hers push against this narrative and remind the nation of the rich talent and determination within Muslim communities waiting to be nurtured.
In contrast, some sections of the Hindu majority, especially in surrounding areas, have often failed to create an environment conducive to the educational and professional growth of Muslims. Many Muslim students face discrimination and a lack of resources, making achievements like Mehwish’s even more remarkable.
In conclusion, Mehwish’s story is not just her personal victory but a triumph for the entire Indian Muslim community. It sends a strong message that Muslim girls from modest backgrounds can break social barriers, excel academically, and contribute meaningfully to society when given support and opportunity.
Her rise deserves to be celebrated widely — as a beacon of hope and a clear example that when families and community come together to support girls’ education, the results can be extraordinary.
source: http://www.clarionindia.net / Clarion India / Home>Editor’s Pick> Indian Muslims> Women / by Mohammad bin Ismail / July 14th, 2025
In the bustling suburb of Mumbra, on the outskirts of Mumbai, a young Muslim woman is emerging as a fearless leader—breaking stereotypes, raising her voice for justice, and empowering her community through bold, grassroots activism.
“People often underestimate how critical basic amenities are,” she says. “But when citizens lack even clean streets or functioning drains, how can we talk about empowerment?”
Marziya Shanu Pathan is not just addressing civic issues—she’s rewriting the script for what political and social leadership can look like, especially for women in marginalized communities.
From an early age, Marziya has been at the forefront of local activism, particularly in areas where Muslim women have historically faced barriers to education, mobility, and leadership.
Marziya Shanu Pathan at a Public rally
Through perseverance and determination, she overcame those challenges, completed her education, and entered public life. Now, through her NGO, the MSP Care Foundation, Marziya is creating lasting impact, one initiative at a time.
Mumbra struggles with overpopulation, inadequate civic infrastructure, and limited access to basic services. Marziya works tirelessly to bring attention to these problems—rallying for better roads, clean water, improved sanitation, reliable healthcare, and quality education.
Through her Foundation, Marziya leads campaigns to clean drains, address waste management issues, and pressure local authorities to respond to citizens’ needs. She doesn’t just talk about change—she gets her hands dirty doing it.
In 2012, the world was shaken when Malala Yousafzai was shot for advocating girls’ education in Pakistan. That same year, in a quiet corner of India, 12-year-old Marziya Pathan led a march through the streets of Mumbra, demanding access to education for girls. That moment was a turning point—not just for her, but for many in her community.
Marziya Shanu Pathan at a Eye surgery camp organised by her Foundation
Since then, she has remained at the frontlines of social reform.
Marziya is the daughter of Ashraf (Shanu) Pathan, a dedicated regional politician in the Thane Municipal Corporation. The father-daughter duo has long worked to address the region’s pressing issues—from water shortages and garbage collection to healthcare and crimes against women.
But Marziya is not content to walk in her father’s footsteps—she’s paving her path. Her focus on youth engagement, women’s empowerment, and constitutional awareness has brought new energy to Mumbra’s civic landscape.
She organizes workshops in schools to educate students about their constitutional rights. She arranges monthly eye camps for senior citizens, ensuring access to free cataract surgeries for those who can’t afford them.
Marziya Shanu Pathan meeting common people during her campaign on civic issues
Two years ago, a video of Marziya managing traffic during Ramzan went viral. Wearing her hijab, she was seen directing traffic late into the night in the congested Mumbra-Kausa market.
“After Mohammad Ali Road, Mumbra hosts Maharashtra’s largest Ramzan market,” she explains. “Women come from far-off areas to shop. We, the women of Mumbra, took it upon ourselves to ensure their safety and convenience.”
That viral moment wasn’t just symbolic—it was transformative. It showcased a new kind of leadership: visible, grounded, and unafraid.
Marziya’s foray into politics is not about power—it’s about purpose. “When I talk to people or address their issues, I don’t just see myself as a politician. I see myself as a citizen standing up for others,” she says.
Marziya Shanu Pathan with Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut
Marziya initially aspired to be a government officer and moved to Pune to prepare for competitive examinations. When the COVID-19 pandemic struck, she returned to Mumbra where after watching her father serve during the crisis made her take up social work as full-time work.
She believes more women must enter politics—but acknowledges it’s not easy. “Patriarchy and rigid mindsets create obstacles. But women who persist, who claim their space, can change the narrative,” she says.
“I admire every woman who carves out her identity, no matter the field. It takes courage and resilience.”
Quoting the findings of the 2009 Sachar Committee Report, Marziya points out that Muslim neighborhoods remain critically underdeveloped. “Not much has changed since that report. It’s our responsibility to bring attention to these gaps,” she says.
Whether through organized protests, petitions, or direct engagement with officials, Marziya ensures that issues like education, sanitation, and women’s safety stay at the top of the agenda. Her efforts have already led to the resolution of several long-standing civic problems in Mumbra.
Though born into a politically active family, Marziya has never relied solely on that legacy. Instead, she has chosen the harder road—working alongside the people, from the ground up.
Marziya Shanu Pathan courting arrest
Her courage, vision, and consistent community engagement have made her a role model, especially for young Muslim women and girls.
Marziya Pathan is more than just an activist—she’s a symbol of what young leadership in India can look like: principled, people-first, and fearless. Through constitutional values, civic engagement, and community-led solutions, she is reshaping not just Mumbra, but the larger discourse around women’s rights, minority representation, and participatory democracy.
In her quiet determination and bold action, Marziya proves that true leadership starts not in offices or headlines—but in the streets, schools, and hearts of the people.
source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Story / by Bhakti Chalak / July 09th, 2025
