Category: Dehradun

Social Activist Khurshid Ahmad Siddiqui Writes to Uttarakhand CM Dhami, Calls for Urgent Fire Safety Measures

Demands survey of unauthorized multi-storey buildings and strict enforcement of fire and structural safety norms across the state

Report: Amaanullah Usmani

Dehradun: Prominent social activist Khurshid Ahmad Siddiqui has written a letter to Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, expressing serious concern over the growing number of unauthorized multi-storey buildings and the lack of adequate fire safety measures in the state. Referring to the recent tragic fire incident in Delhi’s Malviya Nagar, he warned that Uttarakhand could face a similar disaster if timely preventive measures are not taken.

In his letter, Siddiqui stated that rapid and unbalanced urban development in Dehradun and other parts of Uttarakhand has led to a sharp increase in the construction of multi-storey buildings. Many of these structures, he noted, are built without adhering to approved plans and fail to obtain mandatory Completion Certificates and No Objection Certificates (NOCs) from the concerned authorities.

He emphasized that several such buildings lack essential fire-fighting systems, emergency exits, water storage facilities, and other critical safety arrangements. In the event of a short circuit, fire outbreak, or an earthquake measuring 6.0 or above on the Richter scale, these buildings could become death traps, resulting in enormous loss of life and property.

Siddiqui also questioned the functioning of regulatory authorities, alleging that there is little monitoring to ensure whether buildings are constructed according to approved designs and whether mandatory safety clearances have been obtained after completion.

The social activist urged the Chief Minister to order a comprehensive survey of all unauthorized and multi-storey buildings across Uttarakhand, particularly in Dehradun. He called upon the Mussoorie-Dehradun Development Authority and other concerned agencies to verify the structural integrity, fire safety systems, and compliance with prescribed safety standards of such buildings.

Referring to previous fire incidents in Tyuni, Purola, and several hill regions of Uttarakhand, where entire rows of houses were reduced to ashes, Siddiqui said these incidents serve as a stark reminder of the state’s vulnerability. He stressed that proactive measures are necessary to prevent future tragedies.

Concluding his appeal, Khurshid Ahmad Siddiqui stated that public safety must be treated as a top priority and that any delay in implementing corrective measures could expose innocent citizens to grave risks. He urged the government to take immediate and effective action before a major disaster strikes.

Hard Work Honoured: 250 Meritorious Students Receive Gold Medals, 26 Eminent Personalities Also Felicitated

 

From Education to Excellence: Progressive Community Honours Young Achievers and Distinguished Contributors

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Dehradun: In a grand ceremony dedicated to education, talent, and social service, Progressive Community, Dehradun organized the “Talent Felicitation Ceremony–2026” at the Cultural Department Auditorium. Around 250 meritorious students who excelled in the High School and Intermediate examinations were honoured with mementos, gold medals, and certificates of appreciation. Additionally, 26 distinguished personalities from the fields of education, literature, law, journalism, medicine, sports, and social service were recognized with prestigious awards for their outstanding contributions to society.

The programme was presided over by renowned educationist and social worker Dr. Sarfaraz Hussain, while senior Congress leader Vaibhav Walia attended as the Chief Guest. The event was skillfully conducted by Dr. Riazul Hasan Siddiqui, Patron of Progressive Community.

Addressing the gathering, Chief Guest Vaibhav Walia congratulated the award-winning students and wished them a bright future. He stated that success comes through consistent hard work, discipline, and dedication to one’s goals. He encouraged students to remain focused on their ambitions and contribute positively to society and nation-building.

In his presidential address, Dr. Sarfaraz Hussain urged young people to become self-reliant. He emphasized that education should not merely be viewed as a means of securing employment but as a tool for developing awareness, critical thinking, and leadership qualities. He encouraged the youth to explore self-employment, entrepreneurship, and business opportunities.

Special speaker Associate Professor and Career Guide Dr. Afroz Iqbal provided valuable insights into educational and professional opportunities available to students. Highlighting future challenges and possibilities, he guided students on career planning and higher education. An interactive question-and-answer session was also held, during which students sought guidance regarding career choices, higher studies, and competitive examinations.

Dr. Nayyar Kazmi, State President of the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM), appreciated the efforts of Progressive Community and described the initiative as inspiring for the educational development of society. He urged students to pursue education with dedication, sincerity, and discipline.

Mohammad Munish of MCD Career & Guidance Centre, Roorkee, informed the audience about the institution’s efforts in providing free coaching and guidance to economically weaker students preparing for competitive examinations, enabling many of them to achieve success.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Jamshed Usmani, Secretary of Progressive Community, highlighted the organization’s objectives and its various educational and social welfare programmes. He remarked that the true purpose of education is not merely obtaining degrees but becoming a better human being. He encouraged students to uphold moral values and become responsible members of society.

Senior journalist Mohammad Saleem Saifi, recipient of the Maulvi Baqar Award, spoke about the significance of journalism and its social responsibilities. He described journalism as a powerful medium for creating awareness and bringing truth before society. He advised students to strive to become good human beings, avoid blindly imitating others, develop their own identity, and continuously work on enhancing their personality.

During the ceremony, several distinguished individuals were honoured for their remarkable contributions in various fields. The Maulvi Baqar Award was presented to senior journalist Mohammad Saleem Saifi. The Justice Agha Haider Award was conferred upon Advocate Anas Ali, Advocate Musa Khan, Advocate Farzan Ullah Usmani, Advocate Mohammad Suheb, and Advocate Umer Malik. The Engineer Abdur Rahman Award was presented to MCD Career & Guidance Centre, Roorkee.

The Sir Syed Award was conferred upon Noor Ilahi, Dr. Rehman Khan, Dr. Sudhir Pawar, and Areeb Khalid Farooqui. The Dr. Zakir Husain Award was presented to Engineer Shameem Ahmad Ansari, Mohammad Ikram Ansari, and Dr. M. S. Ansari. The Hakim Ajmal Khan Award was awarded to Hakim Ishrat Farooqui.

For contributions to literature, Syed Ziaul Hasan Zaidi “Zia Nehtauri” received the Dagh Dehlvi Award, while Khursheed Ali Khan “Nadeem Barni” was honoured with the Mirza Asadullah Khan Ghalib Award.

For academic excellence, Miss Zunaira Hashmi and Ubaid Ullah Kazmi received the Best Student Award. Syed Ibad Hassan and Ashraf Jamal Qureshi were honoured with the Best LLB Student Award. Adeeba Siddiqui, who earned a Ph.D. in English Literature from Aligarh Muslim University, received the Academic Excellence and Research Achievement Honour.

Mrs. Faza Ghazali and Syed Suhail Zameer Hussain were presented with the Law Career Commencement Honour, while Amaanullah Usmani received the Journalism Career Commencement Honour. Amjad Usmani, CEO of the Uttarakhand Tennis Ball Cricket Association, was honoured with the Captain Zafar Iqbal Award for his notable contribution to sports.

The prize distribution ceremony was efficiently anchored by Miss Aiman Siddiqui, whose efforts were highly appreciated by the audience.

The success of the programme was made possible through the dedicated efforts of Mohammad Sabir Siddiqui, Advocate Syed Suhail Zameer, Arif Siddiqui, Khalid Farooqui, Ashraf Hashmi, Advocate Danish Ghazali, Mohammad Ikram Ansari, Syed Iram Naaz, Miss Seher Khan, and Dr. Shagufta Jahan, among many others.

A large number of students, parents, teachers, social workers, and distinguished citizens attended the event. The ceremony concluded with prayers and best wishes for the bright future of the honoured students and the continued progress of society.

Speakers Emphasised Educational Awareness and Modern Learning in the Muslim Community

Report: Amaanullah Usmani
Dehradun: A grand and dignified function was organised on Sunday at Sir Syed Hall, Van Vihar Colony, Dehradun, on the occasion of the 151st Foundation Day of Aligarh Muslim University (AMU). The programme was held under the aegis of the AMU Alumni Association, Dehradun, and witnessed the participation of several eminent social, educational and intellectual personalities of the city who paid tribute to the educational services and vision of Sir Syed Ahmad Khan.
The event was convened by Dr. Riazul Hasan Siddiqui, while the programme was presided over by retired Chief Engineer Janab Mohammad Umar. Janab Shamshad Ahmad attended the event as the Chief Guest. Among other distinguished guests present were Dr. Mukhtar Ahmad, Hakim Ishrat Farooqui, Dr. Sohela Ahmad, Engineer Anwar Kamal, Mrs. Akila Begum, Miss Azli Fatima, Haji Sulaiman Ansari, Qari S. Zaheerul Hasan and several other respected personalities from different walks of life.
The programme commenced with the recitation of the Holy Quran, followed by a soulful presentation of Naat-e-Pak. During their addresses, the speakers highlighted that Aligarh Muslim University is not merely an educational institution, but a historic movement that played a vital role in creating educational awareness among Indian Muslims. They stated that the message of Sir Syed Ahmad Khan, who strongly advocated modern education for the upliftment of the community, remains equally relevant and important in today’s era.
The speakers observed that the present age is driven by competition, science and technology. Therefore, the Muslim community should not restrict itself only to religious education, but must actively pursue modern education in fields such as medicine, engineering, science, technology and digital learning. Parents were urged to pay special attention to the education of their children, particularly girls, as an educated society alone can progress towards success and prosperity.
The gathering also discussed the responsibilities of today’s youth, advising them to utilise their time productively instead of getting excessively involved in social media and unnecessary activities. The speakers said that AMU has always symbolised brotherhood, education, culture and social awareness, and the younger generation must carry forward this glorious legacy.
Special prayers were offered at the end of the programme for peace, harmony and prosperity in the country. A lunch was also arranged for the guests and participants. The event concluded in a warm, inspiring and cordial atmosphere, leaving behind a strong message of education, unity and social progress.

Afzal Manglauri Conferred with the “Uttarakhand Gaurav Chishti Award – 2025”

Dehradun | The Uttarakhand Sahitya Gaurav Samman (Literary Pride Honor) ceremony, organized by the Uttarakhand Language Institute, was held at the ‘Mukhya Sevak Sadan’ (Chief Servant’s House) located within the Chief Minister’s residence. During the event, individuals who have made remarkable contributions in various fields were honored.

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami conferred the ‘Sahitya Bhushan Samman’—Uttarakhand’s highest literary honor—upon Dr. Jiten Thakur. Additionally, he presented the ‘Uttarakhand Long-term Outstanding Literary Creation Award’ to Dr. Buddhinath Mishra, Shyam Singh Kutela, Dr. Pritam Singh, Kesar Singh Rai, and Ata-e-Sabir (Afzal Manglauri).

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami presented the state’s highest award for Urdu literature—the “Uttarakhand Gaurav Samman: Unwan Chishti Award – 2025″—to the internationally renowned poet and former Vice-Chairman of the Uttarakhand Urdu Academy, Afzal Manglauri. In recognition of his long-standing services to Urdu literature, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami lauded Afzal Manglauri’s literary and social contributions, presenting him with a cash prize of ₹1,51,000, a shawl, a commemorative award, and a citation.

Present on the occasion were Khajan Das (Uttarakhand Government’s Minister for Social Welfare, Minority Welfare, and Language), Health Minister Subodh Uniyal, MLA Savita Kapoor, and others. Maya Devi Dhakriyal, Director of the Language Department, remarked that Afzal Manglauri has brought glory to Uttarakhand both within the country and abroad, noting that he has authored eight books spanning various literary genres. Among the other litterateurs honored with the ‘Uttarakhand Gaurav Samman – 2025’ in various languages, the names of Dr. Jiten Thakur, Dr. Buddhinath Mishra, Dr. Yashwant Katoch, Shyam Singh Kutela, Dr. Pritam Singh, and Kesar Singh Rai were also highlighted. The proceedings of the program were anchored by Dr. Sushil Kumar Upadhyay.

In his address during the ceremony, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami stated that it was a matter of immense pride for him to have the opportunity to honor the distinguished litterateurs of the state. He stated that Dr. Jiten Thakur, recipient of the “Uttarakhand Sahitya Bhushan Samman,” is a source of inspiration not only for Uttarakhand but for the entire world of Hindi literature.

Need for a New Initiative in Higher Education in Dehradun: An Open Letter Inspiring Collective Action

Report: Amaanullah Usmani

Dehradun, the capital of Uttarakhand, has long been recognized as a prominent educational hub where students from across the country come to pursue their studies. Despite this, several sections of society still do not fully benefit from the opportunities available in higher education. In this context, the open letter issued by social worker Khurshid Ahmad Siddiqui (Ghulam Mustafa) reflects a constructive vision aimed at strengthening educational opportunities for future generations.

In the open letter, he appealed to public representatives, respected members of the Muslim community, scholars, intellectuals, and parents to come together and take a collective initiative toward establishing a high-standard university in Dehradun. The letter highlights that the rapidly changing educational landscape demands a stronger focus on higher education to prepare students for professional fields such as medicine, engineering, science, and other specialized careers.

One of the most significant aspects of the letter is that it not only raises concerns but also presents a practical proposal. It suggests that the community can take the initiative to establish a university in accordance with the regulations of the University Grants Commission (UGC), combining modern education with moral and cultural values. Such an initiative, the letter notes, would not merely create an institution but would open new doors of opportunity for coming generations.

Education forms the foundation of social and economic progress. When a society collectively invests in educational development, the benefits extend far beyond one community and contribute to the advancement of the entire region. If such a university is established in Dehradun through collective effort, it could become an inspiring model for other regions as well.

The message conveyed through the open letter is clear: challenges may be significant, but with unity, determination, and a forward-looking vision, they can be transformed into opportunities. The next step now lies with society, policymakers, and educationists to take this idea forward and translate it into concrete action for a brighter and more empowered future for the younger generation.

Progressive Committee Honors Children with Medals

Report: Amaanullah Usmani

Dehradun. A spiritual program of social reform and turban ceremony was organized at Madrasa Jamalul Quran, Azad Colony, Dehradun. Thirteen children who had received religious education were honored by being presented with turbans. The Progressive Committee also encouraged the children by awarding them medals.

Addressing the program, Maulana Abdul Mannan Qasmi, President of Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind, Dehradun district, exhorted the children and their parents to obey the teachings of Islam, to avoid the evils spreading in society, and to observe the upcoming month of Ramadan with complete sincerity, devotion, and piety. He said that the turban is a symbol of the responsibility of knowledge, action, and character, which every student is obligated to uphold.

On this occasion, Maulana Mehtab Nadvi, Imam and Khatib of Fatima Mosque, Maulana Nafees Nadvi (Headmaster, Madrasa Jamalul Quran), Qari Wasim Ahmed, Mufti Ayaz Ahmed (City President of Jamiat), Master Abdul Sattar (District Treasurer of Jamiat), Maulana Manzar Alam, Maulana Mohammad Amir, Qari Saqib, Maulana Rizwan, Haji Yunus (President of the Madrasa Management Committee), Haji Shahzad, Tausif Khan, Tanveer Khan, Dr. Moinuddin, Mohammad Saleem Ansari, Mohammad Saleem, and Mohammad Shah Nazar (State Media In-charge of Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind Uttarakhand), along with a large number of devotees and local people, were present. The program concluded with a prayer. The attendees praised the religious and educational services of Madrasa Jamalul Quran and described such programs as extremely important for social reform.

Fears of misuse of properties built through Zakat, donations and community funds if madrassas are declared unfit; demand for mandatory audit and clear policy framework*

Report : Amaanullah Usmani

Dehradun. Following the recent announcement by the Uttarakhand government regarding the formation of a new Uttarakhand Minority Education Authority to regulate and administer madrasa education, serious concerns have been raised over the protection of public charitable properties associated with madrassas. Social activist and Dehradun resident Khurshid Ahmad Siddiqui has submitted a detailed representation to the Hon’ble Chief Minister, urging the government to ensure strong legal safeguards in this regard.

In his representation, Siddiqui stated that while the objective of improving education standards, enhancing transparency, and introducing secular subjects in madrasa education is commendable, the proposed re-registration process under the new authority may result in several madrassas being declared unfit and subsequently closed. This, he warned, raises significant public interest concerns regarding the future of their land, buildings, and financial assets.

The representation highlights that the majority of madrassas in Uttarakhand—whether previously registered or unregistered—have been established, maintained, and sustained through public charity, including Zakat, Sadaqah, and community contributions. As such, their movable and immovable properties constitute public charitable assets held in trust for religious and educational purposes. The managing committees or office bearers, Siddiqui emphasized, act merely as custodians of these properties and cannot claim ownership, either morally or legally.

Siddiqui has sought clarity from the government on the mechanism that will be put in place to prevent misuse, illegal transfer, sale, or conversion of such publicly funded properties for private purposes in the event that a madrassa is declared ineligible and shut down. He has also demanded that a mandatory audit of land, infrastructure, and financial resources be conducted before or at the time of closure to ensure accountability of the management bodies.

Thememorandum further urges the government to formulate clear and transparent rules regarding the transfer or continued charitable use of such properties. Suggested options include transferring assets to eligible and recognized madrassas, utilizing them for minority or public educational purposes, or placing them under the management of a suitable statutory or charitable institution.

The representation warns that failure to address these issues proactively could lead to serious consequences, including criminal breach of trust, civil litigation, erosion of public confidence in minority educational institutions, and social unrest. Public donations given in good faith for education, it stresses, must remain protected and be used solely for the intended charitable purposes under all circumstances.

Concluding his appeal, Siddiqui expressed confidence that the Uttarakhand Government would consider the matter in the spirit of constitutional values, public accountability, and social justice, and would ensure that reforms in madrasa education are accompanied by clear policy guidelines and strong legal safeguards to prevent any misuse of public charitable assets.

Collective Consciousness Rises Against the Attack on a Kashmiri Innocent Child

Report: Amaanullah Usmani

Dehradun: Dehradun—a city known for peace, humanity, and social harmony—once again stood firm on its values. A delegation led by the City Qazi of Dehradun, Mufti Hashim Ahmed Qasmi, met with the injured Kashmiri child and his family, expressing their condolences and strongly demanding strict action against the perpetrators of the brutal attack.

The delegation expressed deep sorrow and concern over this inhumane incident, stating that violence against an innocent child is not only a violation of the law and the constitution but also a direct attack on the very foundations of humanity. City Qazi Mufti Hashim Ahmed Qasmi clearly stated that violence and hatred weaken society from within, and therefore, such acts cannot be tolerated under any circumstances. He demanded swift, impartial, and strict legal action from the administration and appealed to the society to remain united in favor of peace, restraint, and justice.

 

On this occasion, senior social activist and president of the Jan Adhikar Party, Azad Ali, assured the victim’s family of all possible support. He said that the injured child and his family are not alone; the struggle for justice will continue at every level.

The delegation included Hafiz Abid, General Secretary of Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind Dehradun, Maulana Burhan, Maulana Rehan, Jan Adhikar Party (J) leaders Ved Prakash Sharma, Vishal Goyal, Suraj Rathore, Wasim Ahmed, Asif Qureshi, Ikram Malik, Shahzad, Shahrukh Malik, Ishaq Malik, Shoaib, and many other social and religious representatives.

This meeting was not merely a formal expression of sympathy, but a collective voice that rose from the heart of Dehradun, sending a clear message that the entire society stands united against violence against innocent children and that the values of justice and humanity will be protected at all costs.

Attendance Crisis in Uttarakhand Higher Education

 Scientific study involving 500 participants launched at Doiwala College under the leadership of Dr. Afroze Eqbal; Principal Dr. D.P. Bhatt lauds the initiative

Dehradun: Declining student attendance in government postgraduate colleges across Uttarakhand has emerged as a serious concern, no longer limited to an administrative issue but increasingly linked to the quality and credibility of higher education. Empty classrooms, incomplete attendance registers, and growing concern among teachers clearly reflect the depth of the crisis. Experts warn that irregular attendance disrupts academic continuity, weakens evaluation processes, and directly affects students’ overall development.

The problem is more pronounced in rural and semi-urban regions, where factors such as transportation difficulties, economic pressures, family responsibilities, and lack of academic motivation hinder regular classroom attendance. Educationists describe the situation as a structural academic challenge, emphasizing that disciplinary measures alone cannot provide a sustainable solution.

Against this backdrop, Government Postgraduate College, Doiwala, has taken a significant step toward addressing the attendance crisis. Under the leadership of Dr. Afroze Eqbal, Head of the Department of Sociology, a comprehensive research study titled *“Challenges of Student Attendance: A Cross-Sectional Survey of 500 Participants”* has been initiated.

The study includes 400 students, 50 parents, and 50 teachers and is being conducted through Google Forms. The survey follows scientific methodology and strictly adheres to ethical and confidentiality standards. Research scholars **Anjali Sharma** and **Raj Kiran Shah** are actively involved in the project.

The study aims to analyze institutional, personal, social, and infrastructural factors influencing student attendance. It will also examine perspectives of students, parents, and teachers, leading to the formulation of short-term, medium-term, and long-term solution strategies.

College Principal Dr. D.P. Bhatt, while appreciating the initiative, stated that the study led by Dr. Afroze Eqbal is a meaningful step toward improving higher education and assured full institutional support for the research.

Dr. Afroze Eqbal remarked that the study would not remain confined to identifying the problem alone but would present practical and implementable solutions, enabling sustainable improvement in student attendance.

The findings of the research will be presented in a detailed report, expected to contribute significantly to improving academic quality and strengthening higher education policy in Uttarakhand. The initiative is being widely viewed within academic circles as a transformative and exemplary effort in higher education research.

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