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Patna, Bihar, India
Born and brought up in Shillong, Meghalaya.

Tuesday, December 29, 2009

Patna police uprooting Muslim traders selling cane-made items, govt. silent

By Manzar Bilal and Mudassir Rizwan, TwoCircles.net,

Patna: Abdul Jalil (30) has been selling cane chairs and sofas made with cane in his open-air shop near Gandhi Maidan in Patna for years. Himself an expert in making cane-made items, Jalil has 10 employees to meet the demand for his items. His father has been doing this business for the last 40 years and following into his footsteps, Abdul Jalil along with his three brothers adopted the same trade.

He originally hails from Gaya district in Bihar but lives with his family in Phulwari Shareef area in Patna – the capital city. He has been able to earn Rs.10000-15000 per month which, according to him, goes up to 20000 in season such as in January-February in which demand for the products increases.





Abdul Jalil says their sofas and other cane items are bought not only by the people in the state but they are also transported to other parts of the country. Thus they were able to get better income.





Jalil is not alone in the trade in that area. In fact, there are several dozens of businessmen – almost all of them Muslims – who are involved in the trade and running shops like Jalil’s. Everything was going fine for them till a few weeks ago. But now they are much worried about their future.





About one month ago – all of a sudden, without giving any notice – the Patna Police forcibly stopped them from selling their goods at that place where they have been for decades, without giving them any alternate place. This ‘anti-encroachment’ or ‘city beautification’ drive has snatched the livelihood of hundreds of people.


“For the last one month the local police are not permitting us to open our shops. Police come here many times in a day and if they find any sofa at roadside, they beat the owner and also take the sofa with them. There is no surety that the owner will get back the item from the police station. Thus they lose at least Rs. 5000 which is a big loss for people like us. Therefore, we are frightened and put our goods inside the streets,” Abdul Jalil told TCN.





It is not only Abdul Jalil but there are many shopkeepers who told the same tale. They have been putting their shops everyday at roadside to sell the cane items. They buy cane from the market and made different types of beautiful pieces of furniture like sofas, chairs and tables. Some of them make these items at their homes and put here for sale while some others prepare it here itself.


Mashooq Alam, another sofa-maker and lone bread earner for his family, said: “I am doing this business for the last 18 years. I learnt it from my late father. My three children are pursuing education in schools and I have been fulfilling their needs from this business. But now it is getting difficult as police disturb us every day. They stopped us from opening our shops at the place where we have been doing the business for decades but they are not giving us any alternate place for our business.”





25-year-old Muzaffar Alam also seemed somehow worried. He said that just two years ago he started this business and was happy with it but now he is getting nervous as he has little saving to set up his shop in a new place as police is not allowing him to do the business here.


While we were talking to them, a police jeep arrived and traders got frightened. Some of them fled the scene leaving their shops at the mercy of the policemen. Some of them later said that though their shops were inside the street they feared the police would beat them.



Mashooq Alam


Whether the government will provide these traders with any alternative or just continue letting the police terrify them – and make money in the process – is to be seen.











Police jeep

Friday, November 27, 2009

Common Muslims don’t hope punishment to Babri culprits, criticize Muslim leadership

By TwoCircles.net,

New Delhi: Common Muslims, whether in the National Capital of New Delhi or state capital like Patna, have not taken as surprising the findings of the 17-year-old Liberhan Commission. They aren’t a bit hopeful that the guilty of Babri Masjid demolition will ever be punished. At the same time, they have no good words for the Muslim leadership for what they did during the decades-long Babri movement.



Asked to comment on the indictment of Sangh Parivar leaders in the Liberhan Commission report for the Babri Masjid demolition, Delhi and Patna Muslims said the culprits of the Babri demolition were known to all as all that happened on December 6, 1992 in Ayodhya was telecast throughout the world. Yet, the Liberhan Commission took 17 years to find out them.


On how much hopeful they are about the punishment of the culprits of the demolition indicted in the Liberhan report, an elderly Muslim in Patna said: Nothing will happen to the culprits. Like reports of other commissions in the last 60 years, this will also meet the same fate. A Delhi man in mid-thirties said: I am not sure anyone will be punished. The entire issue of a criminal case has been and will be politicized. The government was not ready to table the report but after the leak it did so unwillingly.




Asked to comment on criticism of Muslim leaders by the Liberhan Commission for “failing the community and not presenting a consensus and constant view on the dispute neither in the court nor outside,” common Muslims were evenly divided in their views about Muslim leaders.

While a Patna resident said the Commission’s comment on Muslim leaders is correct as they did not put the Muslims’ point strongly, and they just cared for their chair, another in the same city, capital of Bihar, describes the commission’s comment as wrong.


Similar division is seen in Delhi.


While an elderly Muslim in the National Capital says that to criticize Muslim leaders in this case is wrong and unjustified, a youth’s view on the issue is just opposite.


“As for criticism of the Muslim leaders, Liberhan Commission is true as Muslim leaders then did not guide the community correctly. They did not put the view of the community before the world clearly. I think there was something wrong on the part of Muslim leadership,” says the man.

(Inputs from Mudassir Rizwan in Patna and Mumtaz Alam Falahi in New Delhi)

Friday, November 13, 2009

Muslim leaders demand reservation, implementation of Sachar report

By Manzar Bilal and Mudassir Rizwan, TwoCircles.net,

Patna: Muslim leaders from across the country and heads of some political parties shared the dais of the newly formed Muttahida Milli Mahaz group in Patna on November 11 to reiterate the demand of reservation for the Muslim community and full implementation of the Rajendra Sachar Committee recommendations.

Thousands of Muslims had thronged the Krishna Memorial Hall in the capital city of Patna to attend the Insaf Rally organized by the Mahaz.





“Muslims as a community are most backward of all communities as Sachar Committee described and Ranganath Misra Commission recommended 10% reservation for Muslims. I ask the government that when a retired chief justice of India has recommended for Muslim reservation then why it is in doubt about implementation” said ex-MP and diplomat Mr. Syed Shahabuddin.

“There has been a propaganda that Muslims cannot be given reservation as a community while other communities have benefited in the past and Indian constitution has space for that” said Shahabuddin.





“Muslims should take part in politics but not form a Muslim party. Muslims should ask the political parties before voting as to how many tickets they give to Muslims and also if they support reservation for Muslims or not. If yes then vote and if not then no votes” he added.

He also demanded that government should give constitutional status to 15-point program so that its effect would be seen on the ground.





“It was propagated that Muslims have been appeased but Sachar Committee report has disclosed the reality. We politicians are really responsible for worst condition of the community. Secular parties should come up to take on Muslims problems because country cannot progress ignoring the Muslims” said NCP leader and MP Tariq Anwer.

The daylong program began with the recitation of the glorious Quran. It was presided over by former Bihar chief minister Dr. Jagannnath Misra and conducted by Congress leader Azmi Bari.





In his welcome speech, ex-minister of Bihar Mr. Akhlaq Ahmad informed the audience about objective and purposes behind the conference.

“We demand the government to put Ranganath Misra Commission report on the floor of Parliament in coming session. For that we gathered here and it is not last but first step in this regard. We will continue until our demands are fulfilled” he said.





Mr. E.M. Abdur Rahman, president of Popular Front of India, said: “Sachar Committee identified the sorry condition of Muslims but did not prescribe the solution which is sorrowful but Misra Commission recommended reservation for Muslims which is the real solution to the problem.”

“Communal forces say that if Muslims would be given reservation, the country would be partitioned again but we say that if Muslim would be provided with reservation, it would be in the interest of the country” Rahman said.





He also said that Muslims should make all efforts for getting reservation then no party can stop them from getting their constitutional rights.

“Muslims did not come from anywhere; on the contrary they have embraced Islam here and because of their good character they ruled over India for centuries. Muslims have struggled for freedom of the country along with other communities but after the independence they have been pushed behind and ignored in all spheres of life. Therefore, reservation is necessary to uplift them and include them in national mainstream” said Akhtrul Iman, RJD MLA.





RJD MLC Ghulam Ghaus said that he appealed to Mr. Nitesh Kumar, Chief Minister of Bihar, to give 5% reservation to Muslims on the pattern of Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu but he refused to do so.

Former union minister Mr. Aslam Sher Khan who came from MP to attend the program said: “Bihar has played vital role in Indian politics so this program will leave positive impact all over the country. We have only two demands. First is to table Misra Commission report in Parliament and second is to implement Fatmi committee recommendations.”





“India is like a garden where various kinds of people are living. It is the responsibility of gardener to take care of all. But Muslims have been discriminated in independent India. Muslims will have to come forward to take part in government and then make all efforts to solve their problems” said LJP chief Ram Vilas Paswan.

RJD supremo Mr. Lalu Prasad assured that he is with Muslims in this movement and will offer all kinds of help, if needed. He also told president of Muttahida Milli Mahaz to hold a program in Gandhi Maidan.





“Ranganath Misra Commission was set up by government and not by Muslims so government should put it in Parliament in next parliament session” he demanded.

Former union minister M. Ali Ashraf Fatmi who was also the chairman of Fatmi Committee, said: “Fatmi Committee has recommended for spending 7000 crore for welfare of Muslims in five years. Of them 200 crore for 5 campuses of Aligarh Muslim University in Murshidabad, Kishanganj, Malappuram, Bhopal, and Pune but so far only 50 crore has been granted for Murshidabad and Malappuram”





“We demand full implementation of Fatmi Committee recommendations and reservation on the basis of Ranganath Misra Commission” he said.

Notably, Sachar Committee disclosed that Muslims are lagging behind in education and their representation in government jobs is poor. On the basis of that, Fatmi Committee recommended various programs to meet educational problems of the community and Ranganath Misra Commission recommended many schemes to solve their financial problems. The commission also recommended 10% reservation for Muslims.





It was first time in Bihar when Muslim leaders irrespective of their parties and groups came together to press government to table Ranganath Misra Commission Report in Parliament and to implement Fatmi Committee recommendations.

It is to be noted that a national convention for Muslim reservation was organized at India Islamic Cultural Centre in New Delhi under the banner of Joint Committee of Muslim Organizations for Empowerment. The convention had appealed to attendees to start this movement in their areas to make it powerful.





Mr. Akhlaq Ahmad, the ex-minister of Bihar, who attended the convention, was inspired by this initiative and decided to take this ahead. On 13 June 2009 the first meeting about this matter was held in MLA Club, Patna where Muttahida Milli Mahaz was launched. Since then several programs were held in almost all districts of the state to create awareness among Muslims about reservation.

Mr. Tanveer Hasan, the convener of the Muttahida Milli Mahaz, said: “If our demand will not be fulfilled in next parliament session we will hold agitation before parliament in Delhi.”





A large number of people from across the state as well as outside of the state attended the program. The Krishna Memorial Hall was not enough space for people who came to attend the program which sent a message for politicians that Muslims are no longer to be ignored.

Dr. Ayyub Ansari, president of Peace Party, Shoaib Iqbal, Delhi MLA, Abdul Khaliq, national secretary of LJP, LJP leader Ezhar Ahmad, Pervez Ahmad, Zafar Emam, noted journalist Mr. Saeed Naqvi and several others also spoke on the occasion.

Monday, October 12, 2009

Muslim League reviving its cadres in Bihar to contest next assembly poll

By Manzar Bilal and Mudassir Rizwan, TwoCircles.net,

Patna: “If Muslims had been united, no political party or government would have ignored them. It is a matter of concern that Bihar has 18% Muslims but it has not given reservation to them while other states like Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Karnatka have sanctioned reservation for them” said Mr. E. Ahmad, the Railway Minister for state, here on 11 October.





He was addressing a program organized by Bihar chapter of Indian Union Muslim League at conference hall of Taramandal in Patna.



Mr. E. Ahmad who is also national president of Indian Union Muslim League came here at his two-day visit to gear up the workers and members of the party for assembly election in the state likely to be held next year.





Criticizing Bihar political leaders, he said that Muslim community of the state has got nothing from those politicians who came to power in the state and enjoyed long terms by the virtue of Muslim votes.



“Leave alone to do any thing for the betterment of the Muslims, the state government did not implement lots of central government’s schemes meant for minorities. I really regret upon the situation in the state” he added.





He highly praised the Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh for his welfare schemes to uplift the minority communities.



“It was Dr. Manmohan Singh who concerned the problems of Muslims and started some welfare schemes to solve them and at least he gave Muslims assurance to meet their challenges. But I cannot say that all problems of the community have been solved during the regime of Manmohan Singh” said Mr. Ahmad.





“We are national Minority and we are not asking charity from any one but our constitutional rights along with other backward classes” he added.



He also said that Muslim League has been representing in the parliament since 1952 till the date without any break though sometimes with one or sometimes with two members. On the contrary there were many parties that came and went and now that do not have even regional appearance.





“Muslim League will contest the next assembly election in the state with enthusiasm and it will also give the fair representation to women. Therefore, I appeal to women to come forward and take part in the activity of Indian Muslim League” he said.



Urging the party workers, he said: “We should strengthen the party at village level, for that we will have to work hard and go from door to door.”





Hundreds of common people, dignitaries and party workers including women were present in the program to listen to Mr. E Ahmad.



Speaking on the occasion, the president of Bihar Indian Muslim League, Mr. Naeem Akhter said that the party has succeeded to have its units in 20 districts out of 38 in the state and trying to get recognition across the state.



“We have examined all parties in the state but they did not do anything for us. So, it is time to give a chance to Indian Muslim League. Insha Allah (if God wills) you will get the fruits on the pattern of Kerala” he promised.

Friday, September 18, 2009

Report card: Muslim Members of Rajya Sabha during July-Aug ’09 session

By TwoCircles.net,

Unlike their Muslim counterparts in the Lok Sabha, the majority of Muslim Members of Rajya Sabha have spoken during the July-August 2009 session of the Upper House of the Indian Parliament. In this last part of the two-part series on the performance of Muslim MPs on the floor of the Parliament, we are presenting facts and figures on the participation of Muslim Members of Rajya Sabha.

While in the Lok Sabha, Asaduddin Owaisi (He represents Hyderabad in Andhra Pradesh) had led Muslim MPs in asking questions and taking part in debates, in the Rajya Sabha Muhammad Ali Khan (from the same state) with 74 questions in the session is far ahead from other Muslim MPs.

Of 29 Muslim Rajya Sabha MPs whose data we collected, 11 remained mute spectators on the floor of the House during the last session. Among those who spoke, Jabir Hussain (RJD, Bihar) asked the least questions – just three – while Muhammad Ali Khan (INC, Andhra Pradesh) asked the most – 74.

Unfortunately, Rajya Sabah website do not show information about debate participation so we don't know how much our esteemed MPs participated in the house.

For Lok Sabha report Click here

Punch line: those who kept mum in the House include ones who hardly miss an opportunity to speak about the community outside the House. Prominent among them are Ali Anwar Ansari (JD-U, Bihar), a known face of Muslim reservation campaign, and Muhammad Adeeb (Independent supported by Congress and SP, Uttar Pradesh).

Type of Questions

Questions are of three types:-

Starred, Unstarred and Short Notice Questions

A Starred Question is one to which a member desires an oral answer in the House and which is distinguished by an asterisk mark. When a question is answered orally, supplementary questions can be asked thereon. Only 20 questions can be listed for oral answer on a day.

An Unstarred Question: is one which is not called for oral answer in the House and on which no supplementary questions can consequently be asked. To such a question, a written answer is deemed to have been laid on the Table after the Question Hour by the Minister to whom it is addressed. It is printed in the official report of the sitting of the House for which it is put down. Only 230 questions can be listed for written answer on a day.

A Short Notice Question is one which relates to a matter of urgent public importance and can be asked with shorter notice than the period of notice prescribed for an ordinary question. Like a starred question, it is answered orally followed by supplementary questions.



Name: Mr Abdul Wahab Peevee
Age: 59
Conctituency: Kerala
Party name: Muslim League

Click here to read more

Thursday, August 20, 2009

Report card: How much Muslim MPs spoke during Lok Sabha session July - August 2009

By TwoCircles.net News Desk,

No platform other than the Parliament could be more powerful to raise the voice of the voiceless – to inform the government and the nation about the grievances of the common people, the minorities, the downtrodden. Yet, Muslim Lok Sabha Members do not use the platform as much as they are expected to. Their performance during Lok Sabha session July-Aug 2009 was disappointing as majority of 30 Muslim MPs did not ask any question, nor did they take part in debate. Debutants also remained silent except Badruddin Ajmal, Dhubri MP and chief of Assam United Democratic Front. He asked six questions and also took part in debate.

Senior Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi led from front as he asked 47 questions, far ahead from other Muslim MPs. Following is a report card of Muslim Lok Sabha MPs in the recent session of the House.

Type of Questions

Questions are of three types:-

Starred, Unstarred and Short Notice Questions


A Starred Question is one to which a member desires an oral answer in the House and which is distinguished by an asterisk mark. When a question is answered orally, supplementary questions can be asked thereon. Only 20 questions can be listed for oral answer on a day.

An Unstarred Question: is one which is not called for oral answer in the House and on which no supplementary questions can consequently be asked. To such a question, a written answer is deemed to have been laid on the Table after the Question Hour by the Minister to whom it is addressed. It is printed in the official report of the sitting of the House for which it is put down. Only 230 questions can be listed for written answer on a day.

A Short Notice Question is one which relates to a matter of urgent public importance and can be asked with shorter notice than the period of notice prescribed for an ordinary question. Like a starred question, it is answered orally followed by supplementary questions.


Name: Mr. Abdul Mannan Hossain
Age: 57
Constituency: Murshidabad (West Bengal )
Party name: Indian National Congress(INC)

No. of questions: 0

No. of debates: 0


Click here to read more

[With inputs from Mudassir Rizwan, TwoCircles.net Patna correspondent]

Monday, August 17, 2009

Patna Muslim religious institutions celebrate Independence Day

By Manzar Bilal and Mudassir Rizwan, TwoCircles.net,

Patna: With the sun rising in the morning of 15th August 2009 in the erstwhile Azeemabad, people came out in the streets to celebrate Independence Day. Besides hoisting flags, they presented different kinds of cultural programs. Like other communities Muslims of the city also celebrated the day with full enthusiasm – they hoisted flags at offices, workshops and religious and educational institutions, and paid homage to freedom fighters.





Muslim teenagers were excitedly marching on the roads towards their educational institutions raising slogans with holding flags.



Tiranga being hoisted at Imarat Shariah


“Freedom means that a man can express his view, can act upon his religious obligations and can think freely without any barrier. It is one of the most important bounties of Almighty God which was snatched from us by British government. It was the same day-15th August 1947- when we Indian got that bounty back. We, therefore, celebrate this day as national celebration day” said Maulana Anisur Rahman Qasmi, nazim Imarat Shariah Bihar, Orissa and Jharkhand while talking to TwoCircles.net.

“As Muslims we give especial importance to this day and remember our forefathers who sacrificed for the freedom and we also convey the message to new generations that to protect the freedom and sovereignty of the country is responsibility of every Indian” he added.



Tiranga being hoisted at Al-Ma’had-ul-Aali


Freedom fighter Maulana Saeed Ahmad, who is also na’eb Qazi of Imarat Shariah, hoisted the Tiranga at Imarat Shariah headquarters in Patna.

On the occasion he recalled the British rule: “It was the time when we all Indian had one aim – to throw out the British government from our country. We actively participated in the freedom movement. We visited rural areas to create awareness about freedom struggle. Whenever we went, we went with national flag with making slogans: ‘Hindustan Zindabad, Congress Zindabad and Jamiat Ulema Zindabad’. It was happiest moment when we got freedom from cruelty of British government” he told.



Muslim kids with Tiranga


In another programme, at 8 am a team of Ulema gathered to celebrate Independence Day in the compound of Al-Ma’had-ul-Aali, a centre where ulema are trained in Islamic fiqh. After hoisting the flag they recited the famous poem of Allama Iqbal ‘Sare Jahan se Accha Hindustan Hamara.’

Though students at Al-Ma’had were little in number because of annual vacation but those who were present there actively participated in the ceremony.



Muslim kids with Tiranga


Expressing his view on why we celebrate Independence Day Maulana Badr Ahmad Mujibi, headmaster of Al-Ma’had told TCN, “We celebrate this day as Independence Day as after a long struggle our country got freedom on this day. Our forefathers also took part in freedom struggle and gave matchless contribution to the country.

“Maulana Fazle Haq Kherabadi, Maulana Ismail Shaheed, Mulana Ahmad Shaheed, Maulana Qasim Nanotwi, Maulana Mhmood Hasan Deobandi and Maulana Hussain Ahmad Madni and Maulana Abul Kalam Azad etc. are some names of those who played a vital role in freedom of country” he added.

Wednesday, July 22, 2009

Movement launched for official status of Urdu in Bihar

By Manzar Bilal and Mudassir Rizwan,

Patna: Though Urdu became second official language in Bihar in 1981 during the regime of Dr. Jagannath Mishra, unfortunately it is yet to enjoy this status fully as the order mostly remained on paper. Bihar Awami Urdu Nifaz Committee launched a state wide movement in Patna today against the discrimination with Urdu.





More than a quarter century after the order, today one can hardly find Urdu knowing officers in government offices. The reason is that Urdu knowing officers and workers have not been appointed for a long time after retirement of previous officers.

Moreover, the officers who have been appointed as Urdu officers have been directed to perform other work not related to Urdu.

The Bihar Awami Urdu Nifaz Committee held a peaceful and non-political agitation at Kargil Chowk in Patna on 21st July and demanded full implementation of the order making Urdu the second official language of the state.





Ashraf Asthanvi, the convener of the Committee, said that this is not a movement of any particular party, organization and religion but it is of all those who have space for Urdu in their hearts.

Talking to TwoCircles.net Mr. Ashraf Asthanvi said: “Though Urdu language has been accepted as secondary official language by the government it is yet to get its place in offices from the assembly to secretariat to block level. Urdu Teachers and professors are not being appointed in schools, colleges and universities for the posts fallen vacant.”





Asked about the purpose of the agitation he said: “We want complete implementation of the recommendation made by government in 1981 and legal action against those offices that put barrier in the way of Urdu” said Mr. Ashraf.

On the future course of action of the committee, he said: “We are going to launch a state-wide agitation which has been started today. We will hold programs in every district of the state and form committees at districts level. Soon we will organize a big program in Gandhi Maidan, Patna wherein Urdu loving people will participate in large number from all parts of the state then we will submit memorandum to the honorable governor of the state demanding immediate action regarding this aspect.”





Mr. Mubarak Hussain, president of Bihar Urdu Molazmieen Union, told TCN: “Every government that came to power in the state took some decision in favor of Urdu but some narrow-minded officers did not let them implement and we Urdu speakers have been silent. Two years back Nitish kumar government ordered to establish Urdu Training Centers in all the districts to train those officers who are unaware of Urdu. In Patna the office for the center was established but soon after it was transferred into storeroom where garbage are being put.”

“In 1995 government separated Urdu directorate but unfortunately its director was not given power as head of the department which means he can not take action against those officers who commit mistakes and also he can not reward to those who do any appreciable work. This made it meaningless” Mr. Mubarak Hussain said.

Addressing the program, Advocate Mr. Shakeel Ahsan said “It was our fault that we could not move to implement the decision taken by government about Urdu. But I am happy that we started a movement under the banner of Awami Urdu Nifaz committee so we request them not to stop it here but go with it to every street of the state till our purpose is served.”

“Urdu is not the language of Muslims but it is the language of India which has played a vital role in freedom of the country but because of discrimination of some officers Urdu was pushed aside in every field” said Mr. Bari Azmi, a Congress leader.

Mr. Arshad, a social activist, said: “We should make the problems of Urdu a political issue and demand parties to solve that in exchange of votes. We should also gather youths to empower our movement.”

On the occasion Mr. Ashraf Asthanvi informed people that on 5th June 2009 then Bihar governor Mr. R.L Bhatia sent a latter to Chief Minister Nitish Kumar about implementation of Urdu at official level. Mr. Nitish Kumar after having a glance on the latter on 10th June 2009 sent it to chief sectary and chief secretary forwarded this latter on 11th June 2009 to chief of the Urdu directorate Mr. Gresh Shanker. But after that where the latter has gone no one knows. When Mr. Gresh Shanker was asked about that he denied and said he did not receive any such latter.

Saturday, June 20, 2009

Intermediate topper Talat Nazneen wants to become IAS officer

By Mudassir Rizwan, TwoCircles.net,

Patna: Talat Nazneen Zakia has secured first position in Intermediate examination 2009 in Bihar, and thus has become pride not only for his family but her educationally backward community also – the community whose male are more educated than female.

Talat of Nalanda Mahila Inter College in Bihar Shareef got 399 out of 500 marks, that is 79.8%. She has got No. 1 position in entire Bihar in Arts stream. Third child of her late businessman father, Talat now wants to become an IAS officer. Earlier she wanted to go to banking sector.



In a brief telephonic chat she talks about her study, family and future plan:

How do you feel about the success?

I am very glad. I can’t explain my happiness over this success.

Preparation for intermediate examination

I did self-study, read about 6 to 8 hours daily. After matriculation, I vowed to do something special in Intermediate. I really worked hard.

Family

Father was businessman, mother is homemaker, eldest brother works as computer operator in registry office, and elder one did I.Com this year.

Support from family

My family gave me full support: my elder brother supported me a lot

Future plan

Earlier I wanted to opt for Banking sector or civil services. Now I want to concentrate on civil services. I want to become an IAS officer.

Message to girls

Girls should not think inferior to boys, that they will always lag boys. With determination and hard work they can leave boys behind and do far better in life.

Saturday, June 6, 2009

Muslims of India respond to Obama's speech


By TwoCircles.net Team,

Muslims in India including religious leaders, journalists, intellectuals, and social activists have on an average responded positively to US President Barack Obama’s Cairo speech to the Muslim World. They hope this will help in bringing peace in the world. Many however, are not happy as he did not regret the killings of millions of people in Iraq and Afghanistan in the US-led war on terror. TwoCircles.net reporters: Mumtaz in New Delhi, Abdul Hameed in Mumbai, Najiya O. in Kochi and Mudassir Rizwan in Patna talked to Muslims to get their views on Obama’s historic speech.


New Delhi

Maulana Abdul Hameed Nomani, Asst. General Secretary, Jamiat Ulema-I-Hind:


The tone and language of the speech of American President Barack Obama and his stress on certain issues are very different from that of his predecessors. His views on various issues have given more hope to people. His support of statehood of Palestine, his promise to withdraw American forces from Iraq by 2012, his announcement that America is ready for unconditional talks with Iran and his promise for education of Muslim students in America – all these things have raised much hope in people.





But it is to be seen how he and his country are going to actualize his statement and how the Muslim World will take them.


Dr Zafarul Islam Khan, President, All India Muslim Majlise Mushawarat:


It’s a good beginning. It’s a marked departure from the policies of former President George W Bush. Though we have some reservations about what he said or what he did not say, still it’s a very good beginning and we would like to see what action follows this nice speech delivered in Cairo which is in a way a central place of Islam.





Some positive points in his speech: he has said there is no war between America and Islam, which is a very good thing. This is going to give a message to certain elements in the American society which has used Bush’s ‘crusade’ to put pressure on Muslims. He has talked about withdrawal of American troops from Iraq. He has also promised that American troops will leave Afghanistan as soon as there is peace.

But I am not very much pleased that he did not say even a word for the victims of America’s war on terror (over a million people killed in Iraq, over 5 million made refugees there). Similar devastations have taken place in Afghanistan. He should have said something on that also. Likewise he did not talk about the uncalled for Israeli aggression over Gaza.


Dr Syed Qasim Rasool Ilyas, Member, Central Advisory Council, Jamaat-e-Islami Hind


It was a clear departure from Mr Bush’s position that whoever is supporting us is with us, otherwise they are with our enemies. It is a good message to the Islamic World. But simultaneously he has tried to do a balancing act. He has defended American position when it comes to Afghanistan. He said America was forced to go to Afghanistan, and that is justification of Bush’s act.





On Palestine issue, though he has supported statehood of Palestine but has not made clear how it is going to be a reality and what role America is going to play for the same.

On nuclear race he has taken a good position. He said he supports nuclear disarmament, and wants to see a world free of nuclear arms.


Navaid Hamid, Secretary, South Asian Council for Minorities:


Fascinating would be right compliment. Fascinating in terms of his clear perception for perusing and safeguarding traditional American interest and opening a window of opportunity and hope for committing to share America's emerging avenues of co-operation with Muslims of the world. His clear message to Muslim was Americans’ non-negotiable relations with Israel with assurance of a separate state for Palestine.

The second important message he has conveyed is non-negotiable stand of American led powers on Iranians nuclear issue. In one line he created bottom line for American stand as far as Israel and Iranian nuclear issue is concerned.

If he really has priorities for democratisation of Isalmic societies, Muslims need to understand whether American establishment has made up its mind for emergence of forces against American allies in Egypt, Gulf, and in Central Asia.

It seems as he was addressing the tyrants of the Muslim countries when he spoke about democratisation of societies, empowerment of women, rights of minorities. No Muslim can individually do anything for all these three issues until rulers of the Muslim nations allow their participation, which seems to be near to impossible in near future.


Shaghil Bilali, journalist (Mail Today):


I think this is a very positive speech by an American president after a long time. He spoke wholeheartedly about the solution of isolation between the US and Islam. He also went on to praising Muslims’ inventions and their contribution to the world civilization.

Obama said, “It was Islam at places like Al-Azhar that carried the light of learning through so many centuries, paving the way for Europe's renaissance and enlightenment.”

He added, “And throughout history, Islam has demonstrated through words and deeds the possibilities of religious tolerance and racial equality.”

Considering the importance of this speech and time, Muslim world should respect his words without smelling any conspiracy theory. But at the same time, Obama should make sure that these do not remain just personal feelings of the US president and also not a mere masterpiece work of a literary artist. But, these are the words of whole US administration and they will execute their sayings considerably.

Secondly, when US is talking to maintain warm relationships with the Muslim nations, they should be very careful in their works, e.g. their peace missions in countries like Afghanistan and Iraq. US should make sure that their actions will only be restricted to the welfare of those countries and there should not be the incidents where ‘hundreds of Afghan people lost their lives because US military forces made errors in carrying out airstrikes in Afghanistan’. On other hand, Muslim nations should also work on to curb those extremist forces within their communities, which are irrationally misguiding Muslims after spreading hatred against US. They should make sure that if one side of world is extending hand of friendship they should be equally cordial to receive it. We will only get the solution of isolation only when both sides are seriously working about it.



Mumbai


The speech of Obama to the Islamic World overall has been welcomed by the Muslim leaders in Maharashtra. Muslims here have high expectations from him.


Mustaqeem Ahsan Azmi, secretary, Jamiat Ulama-I-Hind, Maharashtra:


‘The approach of Obama towards the Islamic world, as expressed in his speech, is a good omen as regards the relations between the Islamic world and the West especially America. We welcome it. His attitude, contrary to former US presidents, towards the Islamic world should be adulated. Bush even has said that America was fighting a ‘Saleebi Jang’ (crusade). Bush has done bloodshed and torture on Muslims in the disguise of establishing peace but we hope that Obama will not step into his feet. We pray that the lobby prepared by Clinton and Bush let him work for the good cause.’


Maulana Sayyid Athar Ali, President, All India Ulama Association:


‘Overall, we welcome the speech of Obama. He is the first person to have spoken frankly about Islam, Muslims and terrorism. We are happy that he has set a deadline of 2012 to remove his army from Iraq. As a matter of fact the existence of both the Israel and Palestine are a reality. None of them can be removed. We should work out a solution to the issue geographically. The approach of Obama, as evident from his speech, in this regard is good. We also welcome his statement that the Christians and the Muslims should work together because it is exactly as per the teachings of the religion. However, we are disappointed that he did say nothing about the innocent killings in Afghanistan and Iraq. Had he said something (regretted on) about those killings it would had sent a better message. Only a speech cannot console those who lost their dearest and nearest ones in the battles. In words he said nothing rigid about Iran (but he gave indirect warning to it regarding nuclear weapons). He should have given the same (indirect) warning to North Korea too.’


Kochi

Sadiqali Shihab Thangal, Former State President, Muslim Youth League:


The speech of US President Barak Obama seems very hopeful. It is a matter of great relief that the American President is trying to understand Islam. The Muslim world is happy that the American President has an unambiguous knowledge of Islam when the global media spreads misconceptions about Islam. This speech is supposed to influence the future policies of the US government towards the Muslim world. The former governments in the country followed a hardcore pro-Jewish attitude. However, Obama has come forward to acknowledge the existence of Palestine. This change in the policies followed by the US is indeed welcome.


O. Abdulla, Veteran journalist:


President Barak Husain Obama’s Cairo speech includes all the ingredients for the Jew-Zionist lobby to call him Maulana Obama. Extreme confidence is not good in any matter. But at the same time, it is not right to approach everything from an angle of disappointment. I don’t think that anybody else in his place could have said more than what Obama has said in Cairo. As he said, change will not come by a single speech. But, what he did not care for in his speech was that the problems between the Muslim world and the US did not begin by 9/11. Obama’s foreign policy does not go side by side with his speech. The relevance of the speech lies in how well he can put it into practice, overpowering the plots of the Jewish lobby and the Zionists.


A.P. Abdul Qader Moulavi, Secretary, Kerala Nadvathul Mujahideen:


We welcome Barak Obama’s speech. It is for the good of all that a peaceful situation prevails in West Asia. Obama’s speech and approach show a good sign. However, let us wait and see what happens.


E.M. Abdurahman, Popular Front of India:


Barak Obama is the head of a system. We will have to wait and see if the change in the voice of the head will reflect in the system. The change in the voice need not essentially be a change in the policy. But we hope it marks a change in the policy towards the Muslim world.

It is welcome that Obama has decided to withdraw the forces from Iraq. But at the same time he has also said that the epicenter of terrorism has shifted to Afghanisthan. So, it is only a shift of forces from Iraq to Afghan. This shows that America is still not ready to leave the Muslim world decide its own fate.

America should recognize that it is only one among the 200+ nations in the world. It should acknowledge that it is neither superior nor inferior to any other country. This aspect should be applicable in all matters including the nuclear issue. Iran too has the right to develop and utilize nuclear energy for its own needs. America should work cordially with all nations of the world. But, Obama has mentioned nothing in this regard in his speech. Unless such a message comes, we can’t hope for a major change in the US policy. However, let us hope that the welcome change of voice will reflect in the policies too.


Dr. Hussain Madavoor, General Secretary, Indian Islahi Movement


As his first speech in the Middle East, Obama’s speech in Cairo creates a lot of hope. Obama became a totally different American President by advocating a Palestinian State. He said that a Palestine state should be there along with the State of Israel. Obama also talked about Islam. He said that Islam is not about terrorism, but rather peace. What is important is that he has said so. What comes in practice can only be known later. It has been more than 100 days since Obama took office as the President of America. All this time in office, he had not mentioned about his Muslim background. But in Cairo, he spoke of his background also. All these show a positive sign and let us welcome it.



Dr.Hussain Madavoor



Kanthapuram A.P. Aboobacker Musliyar, Samastha Kerala Jam’iyyathul Ulema (A.P. faction)


US President Barak Obama’s speech in Cairo was historic and providing a lot of hopes to the world, especially the Islamic world. The former President George W. Bush spoke of waging a Crusade after 9/11. But, Obama has spoken about peace, like none of the former Presidents. Obama expressed his readiness for unconditional talks with Iran, retaining the friends in the Middle East. This shows that he looks forward to good relations. This is a clear change from the policy of George Bush that considered Iran as one among the axis of evil.



Kanthapuram AP Aboobakker Musliyar


Further, Obama has said that Israel should stop its settlements in the Palestinian areas. He has emphasized on the two-nation theory and asked to follow the Road Map. This is very relevant in the present circumstances when the misery of Palestine is not acknowledged as misery by the western media, when Israel is not ready even for UN discussions on the issue. The State of Israel is a reality. The Hamas and Palestinians should admit it.

Anybody can speak. But what is important is the transformation of words into action. Obama’s sincerity in his speech can be understood only by further action on his words.



O. Abdurahman, editor, 'Madhyamam' daily


When he was elected the President of the United States, Barak Obama said he had come with change. And that is what he repeated in the speeches afterwards. He always said that he would change US relations with the Muslim world. The visit to the Middle East and the speech in Cairo were a part of the change.



O.Abdurahman


The economic meltdown and the war in Iraq have affected the US very badly. The help and cooperation of the Muslim countries is very essential for it to come out of this grave crisis. So, Obama seriously wants to better relations. He said that the US does not plan to stay forever in Afghanisthan or to make the country a military base. He added that the US forces will completely be withdrawn from Iraq in 2012. Furthermore, the President expressed his wish to have good relations with Iran. But the basis for all problems with the Muslim world is the Palestine issue. Obama advocates a two-nation theory in the matter. Israel does not agree to this. Still, Obama’s repeated declaration of the two-nation formula can be seen as a way to force out Israeli support.

The Jewish-Israeli lobby is sure to vehemently oppose this. If that opposition is not overpowered, the speech will remain as a mere speech.


M.I. Thangal, editor, 'Chandrika' daily


Obama’s speech shows a voice of reconciliation. His mention of Iran and Palestine makes one think that he wishes for a change. He has used an entirely different tone from that of his predecessors.


Chennai

A. Faizur Rahman, construction engineer and peace activist:


“An amazing speech. But Obama was not fair in seeking a commitment to non-violence from the Palestinians alone. This was perhaps the only glaring omission in his speech. He talked about the violent acts of Hamas but refused to condemn Israel for its Gaza offensive which killed more than 1500 innocent Palestinians including children. Obama is willing to strike the Israelis but afraid to wound.”

A. Faizur Rahman made this statement in the US Consulate in Chennai where he was one of the few special invitees to witness the Obama speech live.

"But all of us must recognize that education and innovation will be the currency of the 21st century, and in too many Muslim communities there remains underinvestment in these areas. I am emphasizing such investments within my country." I think Muslims must focus on this statement of Obama.


Patna

Maulana Anisur Rahman Quasmi, General Secretary, Imarat Shariah, Bihar


His speech is very good. But America has committed sin by killing innocents. If Obama regrets for those killings, it will be good. America should compensate for the killings and destructions in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Thursday, May 28, 2009

Maulana Wali Rahmani exhorts Muslim community to emulate Rahmani-30

By Manzar Bilal and Mudassir Rizwan, TCN,

Patna: Overwhelmed with the accolades flowing in from across the country for the remarkable success of the Rahmani-30 coaching centre in IIT-JEE, its patron and Sajjada Nashin, Khanqah Rahmani of Munger, Maulana Syed Mohammad Wali Rahmani has urged the community leadership to emulate and expand the experience of Rahmani-30.

Addressing a program held at Anjuman Islamia Hall in Patna yesterday to felicitate Rahmani-30’s successful IIT-JEE students, teachers and administration, Maulana Rahmani, patron of Rahmani Foundation that runs the coaching centre opened last year for poor but talented Muslim students aspiring for IIT-JEE, emphasized on opening similar institutions to train Muslim youths for medical and journalism.





Urging the audience, particularly pointing to S M Ashraf Farid, chief editor of Bihar’s leading Urdu daily Qaumi Tanzeem, and Ahmad Ashfaque Kareem, the founder of Katihar Medical College, who were sitting in the hall, Maulana Rahmani said people should come forward to serve the community using their abilities and means that they own. “Mr. Farid should open a centre to train community’s youths in journalism and Mr, Ashfaque should manage coaching for Muslim youths for medical,” he said.

The first batch of Rahmani-30 comprising 10 students had appeared for the all India IIT-JEE, and all of them cleared the test. Since the results were declared on May 25, the telephone of Maulana Rahmani has not stopped ringing. He has received appreciation from as far as Kerala and Maharashtra.

“Within these two days I have received proposal from Maharashtra, Kolkata, Jamshedpur and Kerala etc. to establish centers there and got congratulation not only from the state but also from all over the country” said Maulana Rahmani.






While appreciating the contribution of administration of Rahmani-30, Maulana said: “The community salutes Mr. Abhiyanad and his team for their selfless services, this is a big reward for them because there are many people who are more experts than these teachers and they are earning money but not honors as these teachers got” he stated. Abhiyanad, ADGP (Bihar Military Police), is the founder of Super-30. Last year at the request of Maulana Rahmani he agreed to render his services for Rahmani-30.

Addressing the successful candidates Mr. Ashfaque Kareem said: “It is the beginning, you will have to continue your efforts and go far ahead then surly some of you will be A.P.J Abdul Kalam.” Though I am founder of Katihar Medical College but I feel envy of this great service and I wish I could do that” he added.

Shafeeqe Mashadi of Millat Education Society which provided the building to Rahmani-30, said: “When you complete your course you must remember your past and try to do for others as your teachers did for you.” He also announced a cash reward of Rs 5,000 for each student on behalf of the Millat Education Society.





Some teachers of Rahmani-30 also shared their experience with the audience

“In previous years when results of IIT-JEE came I found some Muslim students from Bihar in the list after much search. But this time when results came out my happiness knew no bounds when I saw the names of all 10 students of Rahmani-30 on front page of national newspaper Indian Express” said Mr. Shakir, one of the teachers of Rahmani-30.

Mathematics teacher of Rahmani-30 Mr. Javed Ahmad while expressing his feeling said: “Instead of blaming for partiality our youths should concentrate on study then surely they will get success.” “The work started by Maulana Rahmani under the guidance of Abhiyanad ji is going in right direction. That’s why the coaching centre got 100% results. Here I did not only teach the students but also learnt how to motivate students.”

The program was attended by prominent personalities, dignitaries, intellectuals as well as common citizens.

Link:

http://www.twocircles.net/rahmani30.html

Monday, May 18, 2009

From new govt, Muslims demand reservation, end to victimization on terror

By TCN Team,

New Delhi: While political parties are religiously concentrated on forging alliances and making new friends to grab Dillik ki Satta (central government) the Muslims, as the largest religious minority, feel detached thinking nothing will change for the community whoever comes to power. However, they have some genuine demands, both at local and national level, from the coming new government.

Muslims demand inclusion of the community in the reservation categories. They want more representation in legislatures, from Parliament to Panchayat. But what they urgently want from the new central government is the end of victimization of the community in the name of war against terror. Locally, they cry for proper civic amenities in Muslim dominated areas and a program for their development. But they are not much hopeful.





Ask about their expectations from the coming government at the centre, they will say: whoever comes to power, none is going to work for the welfare of the Muslim community. No political party is thinking honestly for the development of the community. They are using it just as a vote bank.

This is the general feeling of Muslims in any city.

A Jama Masjid area resident in Delhi says: No government works for the Muslim community. We have got fed up. In this Jama Masjid area there are several colonies which have no hospital and no marriage hall. No party, whether it is Congress or other, is sincere about the community. They just exploit the community for their own benefits. They treat us as vote bank.





Another one is more critical of the Congress for its apathy towards Muslim community since Independence: “The Congress has not done anything for the Muslim community. Since 1947 the party never fielded a Muslim candidate in Delhi. Congress is an open enemy of the Muslim community. Since Independence the party did nothing for the community. Muslims are being treated as a vote bank.” He demands more representation in legislature and “the government should stop the victimization of Muslim community in the name of terrorism.”

There are many in Delhi who want that Muslims should be given their rights. They should be given reservation. The government should sincerely work for the economic development of the community.





Like many in Delhi a Patna Muslim also does not pin much hope on the government. He says: whoever comes to power, none is going to work for the welfare of the Muslim community. Like in other parts of the world Muslims are being humiliated in India also. In the name of terrorism the community is being victimized. No political party is thinking honestly for the development of the community. They are using it just as a vote bank.

(Manzar Bilal and Mudassir Rizwan in Patna, Mumtaz Alam Falahi in Delhi)

Wednesday, May 6, 2009

Urdu Language essential to protect Islamic culture and identity: Rehan Ghani

By Manzar Bilal and Mudassir Rizwan, TwoCircles.net,

To solve problems facing Urdu Language in Bihar pressure groups should emerge once again like the ones that ensured it second official language status in the state, says Rehan Ghani, Managing Editor, Pindar, one of the oldest Urdu dailies in Bihar. Concerned with the Urdu speakers’ apathy towards the language, Ghani, also Associate Editor, Door Darshan, Patna, holds Urduwalas more responsible than the government for the sordid state of the language.



What are the difficulties and challenges before Urdu language in the country especially in Bihar?

Urdu language faces lots of difficulties and challenges from two sides: from the government and from the speakers of the language. Today a big problem is that we (Urdu speakers) have thrown out Urdu from our houses. Though we organize seminars and mushayera in metro cities we are not giving attention to the basic education of Urdu language. So, when the basic education of the language will stop then needless to say about its higher education.

There is a need for Urdu speakers to be aware of the problems and interests of the language. And they should think to solve its problems and protect its interests.

As for the difficulties from the government side, we cannot blame the government much because all the governments take decision when they are pressurized. For example, in Bihar Urdu is second official language but it got the status after much sacrifice of the community. Our forefathers sacrificed for it, they made a pressure group and put the demands before the government and also they made it an election issue until the government believed that Urdu speaking people became awake and if their demands were not fulfilled, the government would bear the political losses. Only then it accepted their demand and Urdu became second official language.

Today though Urdu language is facing problems from government but most of the problems are from our own side because we are not serious to solve the problems. Once again there is a need to make a pressure group only then the problems of the language will be solved both in Bihar and in the country. Therefore, I think that Urdu speakers and Urdu newspapers are themselves responsible for all the problems of Urdu.

What should be done to solve the problems?

The proprietors and editors of Urdu newspapers and well-wishers of the language from mainstream sections should sit together to point out the problems and see which problems we can solve and which ones can be solved by government. Then we should make a pressure group which would put pressure on government time to time. Actually most of the problems do not reach the government. Therefore, there is a need of a group which would make government aware about the problems of Urdu and also suggest the government ways to solve them.

Is it true that Urdu newspapers publish old news?

It is not true at all. Maybe this was happening 20 years back but in this age of internet, information and technology it is totally wrong to say that Urdu newspapers publish old news because today Urdu newspapers are as much updated as English and Hindi newspapers.

What is the circulation of Pindar?

(Smiling) when any one asks me about circulation of newspaper, I reply: do not ask any man about his salary and any woman about her age because they will never say truth about that. Similar is the case with newspapers. I am not proprietor therefore I cannot give you exact numbers. Yes, Pindar is in circulation and people of different parts of Bihar like it.

When did you join Pindar?

I joined ‘Pindar’ as Editor in 2004 when its proprietor decided to revive it. It is one of the oldest Urdu newspapers in Bihar but it was not in circulation for long. Soon after joining it I took several steps for its development. It is progressing day by day and now it is available in all parts of Bihar.

How will you assess the progress of Pindar in the last five years under your editorship?

Pindar progressed in terms of colour as well as number of pages. Earlier it was published in black and white and had 6 pages but now it is being published colours with 8 pages. Therefore people like it and its circulation is increasing day by day. But as a whole number of Urdu readers is decreasing which is the matter of concern for Urdu speaking people. The efforts which should be done to create awareness among people towards Urdu and Urdu newspapers are not going on so far. English or Hindi newspapers are using lots of means to attract people but Urdu newspapers are far behind in this regard.

What should be done for that?

Firstly, Urdu newspapers should increase their pages because English and Hindi newspapers have 20-28 pages but Urdu newspapers have hardly 6-12 pages which also contain advertisement then obviously we carry less material. Secondly, there should be columns for different topics. For example, the news from different parts of the country should be published separately. Similarly news about youths, women, job and economy should also be given specific spaces. Though I work with Pindar but in this regard I appreciate Roznama Rashtriya Sahara because it understood the need of the time. Therefore, it has more pages and every page for different issues. It carries news of almost all parts of Bihar. It brought out a revolution in the state Urdu journalism which created a competitive environment among the Urdu newspapers that surely benefited Urdu and Urdu journalism.

Did Roznama Rashtriya Sahara affect the readership of Pindar?

No. As a whole it did not affect Pindar because it has its own readers. It means that Pindar has been trying to build a good society because being Muslims we have some responsibilities about our religion and society. Therefore we do not carry nude pictures. We concentrate on carrying articles which may help to reform the society. We do not highlight the news of crimes and any such thing which may send a wrong message to the society because we believe that newspaper is one of the means to build good society and we will be asked about that. Because of these qualities Pindar has hold its place among a section of people.

How does government help Urdu newspapers?

In Bihar government helps Urdu newspapers more than in any other state. All those Urdu newspapers that are recognized by state government receive government advertisements and nowadays it is more compared to past. But on the other hand it is tragedy for Urdu journalism in Bihar that its working journalists are living miserable life.

Who can play an important role to solve the problems of Urdu newspapers?

The roles of government, proprietors, wealthy people and common readers of Urdu newspapers are required to solve the problems of Urdu newspapers and problems will not be solved unless all of them perform their roles sincerely. I want to explain here one thing that in Bihar proprietors of the newspapers are generally editors also, it does not matter that he is journalist or not. But a daily newspaper named ‘Inqilab-e-Jadeed, published from Patna, changed this tradition and its owner appointed a working journalist as its editor. Following this step Pindar also did the same. Its owner honoured me by appointing me as chief editor of the daily but because of a controversial write-up of mine I was dismissed from that post. Currently I am managing editor of the daily.

Is the new generation going away from Urdu language?

Yes, the new generation is turning away from the language. But they are not responsible for that; rather we parents are responsible for this because we are getting materialistic and have forgot our responsibilities about our language, our culture and our identity. Of course, we should make efforts for our necessities but should also be careful about our culture and identity.

What is your message for Urdu speaking people?

I request youths that as they are learning science and technology etc. they should spend at least one hour out of 24 hours to learn their mother language because it is their responsibility to protect it and make all efforts for its development and if they will not understand this language, then how they can fight for its right? Therefore, they should try to understand the problems of Urdu because people who are fighting for the betterment of Urdu today they will not be in future and new generation will have to counter these problems. Parents should also teach their children Urdu and keep Urdu books and newspapers in their houses. Unfortunately today there are many houses of Urdu speaking people where Hindi and English newspapers are available but not Urdu newspaper. People should understand the fact that Urdu language is essential to protect our Islamic culture and identity and if Urdu language disappears we will lose our civilization and identity.

(About the interviewee (editor): Rehan Ghani started his journalism career with Urdu daily Sangam’ published from Patna under the editorship of late Ghulam Sarvar, ex-minister of Bihar. He also worked with ‘Qaumi Awaz’ another daily from Patna. Then he was appointed as Urdu translator in the state department of Rajbhasha and worked there for only two years as he felt that though he was appointed as Urdu translator he was working as a clerk and nothing related to Urdu language. He resigned and came back to Qaumi Awaz. He spent around six months with ‘Urdu Samachar’ in Nagpur. Then he joined Door Darshan, Patna, as associate editor and is continuing till date. He joined Pindar as editor in 2004.)

Saturday, March 14, 2009

Lok Sabha elections: For Patna Muslims security a major issue

By Manzar Bilal and Mudassir Rizwan, TwoCircles.net,

We do not hope anything from political parties for it is useless. Yes, we will vote for a party which assures to provide adequate security to the Muslim community from organized violence. Given the scenario of the country it will be better for us to vote for UPA at least to keep L K Advani away from being prime minister of India” says Muhammad Saleem, a fruit seller in Patna.

His views are shared by most of those Patnaites TwoCircles.net talked to. Security and keeping communal forces out of power are major concerns for people in this backward state where civic amenities are rare. Given the history of the Congress, a section is considering alternative. However, many are fed up with political parties, and hence have lost interest in elections.



Muhammad Saleem, a fruit seller in Patna

When TCN team in Patna met Muslims from different classes to know their opinions they found them angry with political parties because all of them have always exploited and cheated the community. They also criticized Muslim leaders who just serve their own purposes and do not dare to raise voice in Parliament and assemblies against cruelty on Muslims.

“We are not happy with any political party because all have been befooling us since Independence. No one is going to solve our problems until we ourselves stand to do so. Once our ratio in government sector was 14 percent and now it is less than 2 percent” said Qamar Rizwi, a businessman in Patna city. He further said: “I am not able to decide as to which party I should vote as all parties are sailing in the same boat”.



Qamar Rizwi, a businessman in Patna

50-year-old Hafiz Mazaherul Haq is so much upset with political parties that he is not interested to vote. He does not remember when he voted last. “I do not vote for any party because they are not serious about our problems and I do not see any alternative for which I should vote” he added.

Though Muslims are disappointed with all the parties including Congress but because they do not see any suitable alternative so some of them have soft corner for UPA alliance compared to NDA. They are going to vote only on the basis of security matter and to keep BJP out of power.

“This is a parliamentary election so we should vote for the party keeping an eye on national and international issues” said Mr. Fazluddin, owner of a cloth shop, adding that the present government led by UPA alliance has done better works at national and international level than NDA alliance. “Though the Sachar Committee report remains to be implemented but this government implemented many schemes for the minority communities compared to the previous one” he said.


Mr. Fazluddin, owner of a cloth shop in Patna

Muhammad Mahmood, a poor worker from Sitamarhi district working in Patna, expressed his anguish saying that besides giving every kind of sacrifice Muslims are discriminated in every aspect of life in the country. Asked which party he is going to vote for he said: “I will vote for the party which will provide security to Muslims and manage peaceful environment in the country because whenever violence erupts we become jobless” said Md. Mahmood.

Muhammad Saleem, a fruit seller in Sabzi Bagh, Patna, felt sorry to say that even Muslim leaders are not sincere to solve the problems faced by Muslims, let alone the politicians from other community. “We do not hope anything from political parties for it is useless. Yes, we will vote for a party which will give assurances that they will provide adequate security to the Muslim community from organized violence” he said adding, “Seeing the scenario of the country it will be better for us to vote for UPA alliance at least to keep L K Advani away from being prime minister of India” said Saleem.

“We want to live peacefully along with other communities in the country, and during this government led by UPA we did not see any pre-planned riot such as Gujrat riot so we will give vote in favour of UPA alliance” said 60-year-old vendor Muhammad Moheet. “Government should initiate to tackle poverty that we are facing today” he added.



Muhammad Moheet, vendor in Patna

As Muslims have bitter experience with Congress and BJP some of them want to do new experience and give chance to any new alliance.

Muhammad Asrar, a social activist, blamed all political parties that came to power after Independence for pushing Muslim community towards educational, social and financial backwardness by their double-standard policies. “Both Congress and BJP have always pained us. If Congress is a secular party so why it did not implement the Sachar Committee report and Sri Krishna Commission report and why Babri Masjid case is still stuck in court” he said. He also said that many welfare schemes were announced by government but how many Muslims have benefited is not known. “We will vote for non-UPA and non-BJP alliance so we can test them also” said Asrar.

“We want to change the government so that no party can take us as for granted and then neglect our problems and exploit us as happened in the past” said Dr. Ataur Rahman. He also advised Muslim leaders to learn lessons from the leaders of other communities who do not hesitate to go any extent for the benefit of their communities.

Saturday, February 7, 2009

Normalcy returning to riot torn Gopalgunj District

By Mudassir Rizwan, TwoCircles.net reporter,

Patna: Saran Division Commissioner Ashok Kumar Chauhan while talking to twocircles.net said:"Members from both the sides are taking round of the area to take locals in confidence. Situation is completely under control and no untoward incidence has been reported so far since the past few hours. We have taken all the precautionary measures to avoid recurrence of any unfortunate incident".



It is to be recalled that around yesterday afternoon tension broke out between the members of two communities in the Pathanpatti area of Gopalganj district in Bihar, which falls under Barawli police station.

Tension escalated when members of a particular community decided to follow through the route of Pathanpati area, along with the procession, led by a strong mob, for the purpose of idol immersion on the occasion of Saraswati puja.

Madrasa Insaful Uloom was put on fire but all the students were able to make safe exit.