Media Release
Kuwait, Aug 21: The Indian Social Forum (ISF) here, celebrated India’s 71st Independence Day with great joy and enthusiasm on August 15. The event kicked off with the unity song at 7.30pm at BBS Alumni Club Jabriya.
Safat Alam Taimi, chief editor, Almisbah Urdu Magazine published by Islam Presentation Committee, Kuwait inaugurated the event. Addressing the gathering, Safat Alam enlightened about the role of the Muslim community in the freedom struggle. He thanked the organizers for providing the expat Indian community an opportunity to gather on such a joyous occasion to mark the celebration.
Delivering the keynote address, Alauddin Ainul Haq, vice president, ISF Central Committee described the uncovered stories of freedom struggle. He alleged that the role of Indian Muslims in the national movement has not been given adequate coverage in the press or books. It has either been sidetracked or referred to here and there by scholars. “Instead of factual and secular historiography it has been communalized. As a result, the contribution of Muslim revolutionaries, poets and writers are not known today.
"The proponents of Hindutva brand of nationalism who often demand Indian Muslims to prove their loyalty to the nation were never part of the freedom struggle. They not only mentioned silence about the evils of foreign rule but all attempts were made to sabotage the fight against British imperialism.” Criticizing those forces, he further said that the essential elements of any sort of nationalism; equity, fraternity, justice, civil liberties and democracy have no space whatsoever in their brand nationalism.
Speaking on the occasion, Khaleel Adoor, social activist said that freedom is a birthright of each and every individual. The purpose of freedom struggle in India or different parts of the world was not just to change the rulers; instead, it is to gain the freedom to act, speak or think as one wants to live. Praising the social concern of ISF in serving Indian community irrespective of their region or religion, Adoor raised his concern over the growing communalism in India.
Mohammed Rafeeq Manchi, general secretary welcomed the gathering, while Sameer Aman anchored the programme and Siccander Batcha M delivered the vote of thanks. ISF central committee member Imthiyaz Arkula was also present on the dais. Refreshments were served at the end of the programme. The event concluded with the National Anthem.