Mir Mohsin Ali

RIYADH — Veteran Saudi journalist and editor at large of Saudi Gazette Khaled Almaeena urged Indian Muslims to stay away from the influence of religious extremists as they pose the great threat to the community.

Almaeena, who was the keynote speaker at an event organized in Riyadh, emphasized the need for moderation while practicing Islam.

Addressing the 97th foundation of Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI) organized by Jamia Millia Islamia Alumni Riyadh Chapter at Golden Tulip Hotel, Almaeena called on Indian Muslims to keep their mind open while following their faith.

He said education is an important tool to face the challenges in the world rather than following mullahs and being confined in a ghetto. Indian Muslims should come out and confront the world with an open mind.

Almaeena said India is a great country with many religions and all practicing their religions peacefully. India offers equal opportunities to all Indians and Indian Muslims can utilize these opportunites only when they are fully equipped with education.

He cited examples of the Supreme Court judgments where a non-Muslim judge praised Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) saying that he was a great character in the history who respected women.

He recalled another ruling where it was said that Qur’an is a women friendly holy book.

Regarding the US recognition of Jerusalem as its embassy, Almaeena said that nothing could be achieved by protest on streets or by burning buses and other public properties. As the decision of US President was opposed by most of the countries, it should be legally dealt at the United Nations.

Dr. Suhel Ajaz Khan, the deputy chief of the mission at the Indian Embassy, who was also chief guest at the event, said Delhi is a heart of India whereas Jamia represents heart of India and it also represents the composite culture of India and we all are proud of it.

Jamia Millia Islamia is a great institution, which carries the legacy of luminaries, like Moulana Abul Kalam Asad, Dr. Zakir Hussain, Muqtar Ansari, Hakeem Ajmal Khan and others who established this great institution.

Dr. Suhel said that education is an important tool, which can change your worldview and make you a better person in the society. He said that universities could play an important role in strengthening Indo-Saudi relations by scholar exchange programs.

Jamia Millia Islamia had an honor to host the two Kings of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Guest of honor Dr.Hifzur Rahman Azmi, first Secretary, said that students of Jamia played an historic role in the struggle of the freedom of India. He introduced the chief guest Dr. Suhel Ajaz Khan and keynote speaker, Khaled Almaeena to the audience.

Earlier President, Jamia Millia Islamia Alumni Riyadh Chapter, Aneesur Rehman welcomed the gathering.

Former President Ghizal Mahdi presented directory to the guests. Tarana of Jamia played by the boys and girls of Jamaities.

On behalf of Jamia Millia Islamia Alumni Riyadh Chapter Aneesur Rehman and Layeeq Ahmad, Vice President, presented memorable plaques to the guest’s. Dr.Hifzur Rahman presented plaques to sponsors.

Dr.Suhel Ajaz Khan presented plaque to the members of JAMIA Alumni and Engr. Ali Mohammed; pass out 1969 senior student of Jamia who come from Delhi to attend this function.

Mohammed Viquaruddin recited the verses of holy Quran, Abdul Rahman Umri conducts the proceedings and Rahbar proposed vote of thanks.

Sponsors of this event are Digital Entity Corporation, LuLu Hypermarkets, Bank AlBilad, Etihad Airways, Al-Kabeer, Frendi and Paradise Restaurant.