The “Jashn-e-Jamhuriyat” program, organized by the Muslim Rashtriya Manch (MRM) at the Aiwan-e-Ghalib Auditorium in Delhi, marked an important celebration of democracy and India’s diverse cultural values on Republic Day. The event, which transcended simple commemoration, served as a platform to discuss India’s democratic ideals, promote communal harmony, and reinforce the importance of unity in diversity.
Anil Gupta, the Delhi Prant Sanghchalak, opened the discussion by emphasizing the supreme importance of voting in shaping the future of India. He stressed that voting was not a mere formality but a crucial responsibility for every citizen to ensure the country’s progress. Gupta also addressed pressing issues like pollution, corruption, and the state of education, calling for elected leaders to prioritize essential services such as clean air, clean water, and quality education.
Furthermore, Gupta highlighted India’s rich cultural diversity, stating, “Our nation is the shared home of Hindi, Urdu, and Sanskrit cultures, whose roots cannot be harmed.” He urged citizens to overcome historical divisions and move forward in unity and progress, with voting as a pledge to contribute to a stronger society.
India is Heaven For Minorities – Iqbal Singh Lalpura
Iqbal Singh Lalpura, Chairperson of the National Commission for Minorities, took the stage to emphasize India’s commitment to equality and the rights of minorities. Lalpura described India as a “heaven for minorities,” showcasing the equal opportunities available for everyone, including the possibility for individuals from minority communities to rise to prestigious positions, such as Prime Ministers or Chief Justices.
He highlighted the importance of preserving the unity among India’s diverse populations, stating, “Our culture and traditions remain the same despite religious differences. We must continue to respect this unity as we work toward making India a developed nation.”
Education And Awareness: Shahid Akhter’s Call For Civic Engagement
Shahid Akhter, Acting Chairperson of the National Commission for Minority Educational Institutions (NCMEI), focused on the need for education and awareness. He reminded the audience that the future of India would be shaped by today’s voters. “We must ensure that every citizen exercises their voting rights wisely and with full awareness,” he urged.
Akhtar called for rising above divisive identities, stressing the importance of contributing to India’s progress as “Hindustanis” rather than focusing on narrow sectarian identities. He further noted, “It is essential to prioritize our duties as much as our rights to create an empowered and developed India.”
A key moment during the event was the launch of the Hindi edition of the book Waqf Bill 2024: Respect to Islam and Gift for Muslims. Co-authored by renowned scholars and social activists, the book focuses on the effective management and social use of Waqf properties. The speakers praised this book for its potential to empower the Muslim community and inspire reforms in Waqf property management, which could significantly contribute to societal welfare.
Dialogue And Consensus: The Path Forward
The program also emphasized the importance of dialogue, consensus, and inclusivity in addressing the challenges India faces. Speakers highlighted that India’s strength lies in its communal harmony and democratic values. They reaffirmed the significance of the principle “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,” or “the world is one family,” as a core tenet of India’s cultural identity and democratic ethos.
The event concluded with a call for unity in diversity, showcasing the power of India’s democratic spirit and cultural diversity. Through such gatherings, the ideals of the Republic and the depth of Indian culture were communicated not only to the nation but also to the world.
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