In a significant step towards fostering mutual understanding, communal harmony, and national unity, a historic meeting took place on Thursday evening at Haryana Bhawan in New Delhi between senior leaders of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and prominent Muslim journalists.
The theme of the meeting was ‘Dialogue for Solutions’, aimed not only at bridging differences but also at laying a concrete foundation for building a stronger, united, and inclusive India.
Nearly 50 esteemed Muslim journalists participated in the event, representing major names from print, electronic, digital, and Urdu media.
This gathering was not merely an exchange of ideas but also served as a cultural and ideological bridge that reinforced the spirit of unity in diversity—the soul of India.
This dialogue brought together journalists from leading national and international media outlets like ANI, PTI, India TV, ABP News, DD News, NDTV, Zee News, DW, Voice of America, and renowned Urdu publications like Inquilab, Sahafat, Sayban, and Siyasi Taqdeer.
The meeting offered a serious platform for introspection and discussion on the role of media in shaping national discourse.
The event was organised by the Muslim Rashtriya Manch (MRM)—an RSS-supported platform promoting social harmony and communal amity.
The meeting was presided over by Indresh Kumar, senior pracharak and national executive member of the RSS.
Other notable dignitaries present included Prof Shahid Akhtar (National Convener), Shahid Sayeed (National Media In-charge), and Dr Shalini Ali (In-charge of the Women’s Wing).
Journalists brought life to the dialogue through candid questions and suggestions. Participants also included Anil Garg, Dr Shaista, and Shakir Hussain.
This was not a typical formal conference. Rather, it was an initiative to dispel centuries-old misunderstandings and give a fresh dimension to India’s cultural unity—a powerful step toward realising the Indian ethos of ‘unity in diversity’.
In his inaugural address, Shahid Sayeed raised crucial questions about the role and responsibility of journalism. He stated, “While a large part of the world is caught in war, violence, and unrest, India stands unique, holding aloft the torch of peace, dialogue, and coexistence. That is the true strength of our civilisation and culture.”
He appealed to journalists to go beyond merely reporting news, to also guide society. “Journalism is not just about delivering information—it is about paving a path for the people. Our pen must become a bridge, not a weapon—a bridge that connects society, culture, and ideologies.”
He further emphasised that journalists must now be partners in nation-building and social transformation, not just conveyors of news.
RSS senior leader Indresh Kumar, in his inspiring address, described dialogue as the foundation for India’s future. “Dialogue not only resolves conflicts but also builds the nation. We are not a news agency—we are workers of national reconstruction.”
His words carried deep conviction, signalling that social harmony, communal goodwill, and a shared future can only be built through open dialogue.
He referred to RSS Chief Dr Mohan Bhagwat’s recent meeting with Islamic scholars and clerics, calling it ‘an effort to connect with India’s soul’ and to unify its rich cultural diversity.
Calling journalists ‘nation-builders’, Indresh Kumar said, “Only through true journalism, open dialogue, and collective efforts can we build a peaceful, inclusive, and powerful India.”
He cautioned journalists against chasing sensationalism and TRPs at the cost of weakening the societal fabric. “Journalists must not only criticise power but also guide society. Let your pen be a voice for development and unity, not a weapon for conflict.”
His message reflected not only the RSS ideology but also India’s constitutional values and shared heritage.
Prof Shahid Akhtar linked the progress of the Muslim community with India’s overall development. “Empowering the Muslim community socially, educationally, and economically will only strengthen India.”
He urged Muslim media not to limit themselves to highlighting problems, but also to present solutions and opportunities. “The media must become the true voice of society—not just exposing pain and neglect, but also creating a path of hope and confidence.”
He stressed that the media must play a constructive role in policymaking and act as a mirror where Indian Muslims can see their past, present, and future clearly.
Journalists participated freely and raised critical issues. Key responses included:
Several sensitive and complex issues were discussed, including:
Journalists demanded technical and financial support for Urdu media to ensure its relevance in the digital era. They also requested greater opportunities for Muslim journalists on national platforms so their voices are heard in the mainstream.
Notable journalists present included Ashiq Hussain (ANI), Hasan Shuja (Sahafat & Awam-e-Hind), Javed Rahmani (Sayban), Shoeb Raza (India TV), Shehla Nigar (DD News), Akhlaq Usmani (ABC National News), Mohammad Rahmatullah (Qaumi Tanzeem), Maroof Raza (Media 24×7), Khalid Raza (Bharat Express), Khalid Wasim (Sach ke Sipahi), Suhail Anjum (Voice of America Urdu), Shuja (PTI), Javed Akhtar (DW), Shams Tabrez (Millat Times), Madiha Khan (ABP News), Khurshid Rabbani (Munsif TV), Anjum Jafri (Qaumi Bharat), Syed Mubashshir (Zee), Mustakeem Khan (Siyasi Taqdeer), AU Asif (Senior Journalist), Munne Bharti (NDTV), and South Asia News, among about 50 participants.
This was not just another event—it was a powerful effort to connect with the soul of India. It showed that when people speak openly and listen sincerely, conflict is replaced with harmony.
This was the beginning of a new era, where differences are seen not as problems but as opportunities.
This dialogue proved that nation-building begins with listening, understanding, and seeking shared solutions.
Now, the need is to take this message to every alley, every village, and every newsroom so that the message resounds—“Dialogue is the resolve, and resolve is the form of the nation.”
During the concluding press conference, Indresh Kumar reacted to the NIA Court acquitting all accused in the 2008 Malegaon Blast Case, stating, “After a long battle, the NIA Court has shown the mirror to those political leaders who hatched the conspiracy of ‘saffron and Hindu terrorism’. The court has clarified that they committed unconstitutional, inhumane, and torturous acts. Innocents have been acquitted. It was indirectly stated that the conspirators themselves are guilty. I believe those who wove this conspiracy committed heinous, inhuman, and oppressive acts. Such leaders and parties must be taught a lesson by the people and the law of this country.”
He added, “Saffron and Hinduism have never been symbols of terror. Across the world, we hear that terrorism has no religion. When the barbaric terrorist attack happened in Pahalgam, everyone said not to give it a religious colour. Yet, Congress committed a punishable crime by labeling terrorism with a religious name. That was a heinous act.”
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