New Delhi, February 09: A high-level IMPAR delegation comprised of eminent professionals, former judges, defence experts, civil society leaders,
and industry representatives met the Defence Minister, Shri Rajnath Singh, yesterday to discuss ways to strengthen
social harmony, reinforce India’s plural ethos, and build institutional partnerships in the context of India’s growing role
as an emerging global power.
The meeting was held in a constructive and forward-looking spirit, focusing on nation-building, internal cohesion, and
constitutional values. The delegation underlined that social harmony and unity in diversity are central to India’s internal
security, democratic resilience, and global credibility. Speaking after the meeting, Mr. Nesar Ahmed, IMPAR General
Secretary and former President, Institute of Company Secretaries, said:
“India’s strength has always flowed from its unity amidst diversity. As the country advances as a global power, internal
cohesion becomes even more critical. Our interaction with the defence minister was about building bridges, restoring
mutual trust, and working together to ensure that every citizen feels secure, respected, and equally invested in the
nation’s progress.”
Vice President IMPAR, Mr. Javed Yunus added that the delegation also shared concerns regarding rising social anxieties
and the spread of hate driven incidents reported from different parts of the country, while emphasising that the rule of
law and constitutional discipline must prevail over all forms of vigilantism and divisive rhetoric. This trend is not in the
interest of the country.
“Ensuring peace, preventing the spread of hate, and strengthening trust between citizens and institutions are essential
for national security. This engagement is not about appeasement or confrontation, but about safeguarding India’s
constitutional framework and civilisational values,” said Khwaja Shahid, Member, Board of Trustee, India Islamic
Cultural Centre.
Responding to the delegation, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said:
“India’s unity and social harmony are fundamental to our national security and democratic strength. Every citizen,
irrespective of faith, has equal rights and responsibilities under the Constitution. “We will work together with
community leaders and civil society to address concerns through dialogue and institutional engagement. I believe
regular interactions with the community are essential, and such meetings will continue so that issues can be addressed
in a timely and constructive manner.”
The delegation reiterated that Indian Muslims are bound by the shared ethos, and shared future, and equally committed
to India’s prosperity, security, and development. Members noted that protecting the dignity and rights of every
community strengthens, rather than weakens, the authority of the state. At the same time, the delegation emphasised the
importance of responsible citizenship, adherence to the rule of law, and rejection of extremism in all its forms,
reiterating that no individual or private group can be allowed to take the law into their own hands.
The discussion also highlighted the importance of structured engagement between government and civil society,
confidence-building initiatives at the community level, responsible public communication, and coordinated efforts to
control and prevent the escalation of hate-driven incidents. The Minister shared the concerns of the delegation on rise of
radicalism in certain parts of the country.
The delegation expressed its appreciation for the opportunity to engage with the Government at the highest level and
conveyed its willingness to partner constructively with institutions to promote peace, unity, and national integration.
Delegation Members Present Included:
Mr. Z. U. Khan, former High Court Judge; Mr. Qamar Agha, journalist and defence expert; Mr. Roshan Baig; Dr. MJ Khan;
Prof. Khwaja Mohammed Shahid; Mr. Javed Yunus; Mr. Nesar Ahmad; Col. A. H. Khan; Mr. Siraj Qureshi; Dr. Nida Fatima
Hazari; Ms. Tehseen Zaidi; Dr. Tajwar Mohammed Khan; Mr. Athar Ali; Mr. Mohammad Ahmed; Dr. Nakhat A. Naqvi; Mr.
Akhtar Ali Khan; Mr. Ibrahim Ahmad; and, among others.
Key Message: India’s rise as a global power is inseparable from social harmony at home. Dialogue, constitutional values,
and collective responsibility remain the strongest pillars for unity, security, and national progress.
About IMPAR
Promoted by 500 plus prominent and progressive Muslims from different walks of life, IMPAR is a national forum,
which aims to work in making a meaningful difference to the community’s engagement with the society and the
nation. IMPAR includes eminent persons from politics, bureaucracy, corporate, business, academia, science,
economy, journalism, policy making, art and culture and philanthropy etc. As the national think tank and apex
coordination body, IMPAR is mobilizing the voice of progressive Muslims to collectively express its constructive
views to the media and the nation. IMPAR works as a think-tank, research and advocacy centre and apex
coordination body for Indian Muslims to have a meaningful engagement with key stakeholders towards social and
economic empowerment of the community and a prosperous nation. IMPAR promotes education and reforms,
values of shared culture and national ethos, rational thinking and scientific temperament for positive outlook in
the society
