NCMEI Chairman Shahid Akhter Chairs Meeting In Mumbai To Strengthen Minority Education Rights

The officiating Chairman of the National Commission for Minority Educational Institutions (NCMEI), Professor (Dr) Shahid Akhter, chaired a high-level meeting at the Sahyadri State Guest House in Mumbai, bringing together Maharashtra government officials and representatives of minority educational institutions from across the state.

The meeting focused on strengthening the implementation of Article 30(1) of the Indian Constitution. This provision grants religious and linguistic minorities the right to establish and administer educational institutions.

Discussions also addressed Section 10 of the NCMEI Act, 2004, with participants examining ways to remove administrative barriers and simplify procedures for minority communities.

Professor (Dr) Shahid Akhter, a noted academic and administrator, continues to play a leading role in advancing minority education reforms.

Currently serving at Jamia Millia Islamia in New Delhi, he has also held key positions such as Chairman of the Jharkhand State Minorities Commission and Vice Chairman of the National Council for Promotion of Urdu Language.

Highlighting his vision, he stated, “Autonomy and national integration are not mutually exclusive. Our institutions must excel in education and innovation to directly contribute to the Viksit Bharat 2047 mission.”

“The soul of India resides in mutual brotherhood, tolerance, and pluralism,” he further remarked.

The Mumbai meeting forms part of ongoing efforts to streamline processes for minority institutions. Initiatives such as the introduction of a digital platform for registration aim to enhance transparency and efficiency.

Officials and institutional representatives also agreed to work on resolving pending applications related to affiliations and no-objection certificates.

Participants included senior officials from Maharashtra’s minority welfare department and leaders of minority-run institutions. They discussed the creation of a joint task force to address key challenges and improve awareness of legal remedies available through the NCMEI.

The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to protect minority educational rights and promote inclusive growth.

Professor (Dr) Akhter emphasised the importance of safeguarding these rights. He said they remain essential to India’s democratic framework and long-term development goals. They also ensure equal opportunities for all communities.

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