Last Updated on November 30, 2025 5:31 pm by INDIAN AWAAZ
JAVED AKHTER / NEW DELHI
Scholars at a Memorial Lecture on Saturday recalled Syed Shahabuddin’s Constitutional Fight for Minority Rights and Community Service. They said that Syed Shahabuddin was one of India’s most distinguished Muslim leaders — a former diplomat, an eminent parliamentarian, and a towering voice who articulated the concerns of Indian Muslims with clarity and dignity. He is remembered among those rare personalities who not only championed the rights of minorities with a structured approach but also played a significant role in national politics.
These views were expressed at the 19th Mahfuzur Rahman Memorial Lecture organised by Urdu Development Organisation at the Ghalib Academy, titled “Syed Shahabuddin’s National and Community Services.”
The programme was presided over by Professor Emeritus Abdul Haq of Delhi University. Distinguished speakers included noted scholar Dr. Zafarul Islam Khan, former IGNOU Pro-Vice Chancellor Prof. Basheer Ahmad Khan, Father Solomon George, journalist Masoom Moradabadi and Dr. Khalid Raza Khan. The keynote lecture was delivered by senior journalist Wafa Azmi from Rashtriya Sahara.
Speakers noted that Syed Shahabuddin rendered remarkable service in the field of diplomacy before entering politics. Through key platforms such as the All India Muslim Majlis-e-Mushawarat and the Babri Masjid Action Committee, he highlighted the collective issues of the Muslim community. In Parliament, he forcefully raised concerns related to the educational and economic backwardness of Muslims, minority rights, social justice, and the preservation of secular values.
They described him as a refined personality — an intellectual known for strong reasoning, a gifted writer, and a principled politician. Syed Shahabuddin always conducted his struggle within the constitutional and democratic framework. His writings, speeches and political efforts continue to serve as a source of guidance for the community.
Speakers added that Syed Shahabuddin’s life teaches an important lesson: safeguarding minority rights through serious political engagement within the national mainstream is the true guarantee of a strong and united India. His contributions, they said, will forever be remembered with respect in history.
Dr. Zafarul Islam Khan, Prof. Basheer Ahmad Khan, and Masoom Moradabadi shared personal memories of their association with Syed Shahabuddin, recalling his working style, temperament, and deeply human sensibilities.
Dr. Zafarul Islam Khan informed the audience that a selection of editorials from Muslim India, the journal once edited by Shahabuddin, is being prepared for publication. Reading these editorials, he said, will offer deeper insight into Shahabuddin’s foresight, his love for the nation and the community, and his vision for India’s progress.
Father Solomon George highlighted the growing attempts to spread hatred in the country and the increasing targeting of minorities and their institutions. He stressed the need for collective efforts to overcome the environment of hostility.
Dr. Syed Ahmad Khan, General Secretary of the Urdu Development Organisation and the driving force behind the lecture series, delivered the vote of thanks. He said the memorial lecture was instituted in memory of renowned journalist Mahfuzur Rahman after his passing in 2010. Initially, two lectures were held each year, but in recent years it has become an annual event.
He added that Mahfuzur Rahman’s journalism was marked by courage, integrity, and a deep commitment to national service.
The programme was conducted by young journalist Dr. Nisar Ahmad Khan.