Kozhikode, 16 Feb (H.S.):Indian Grand Mufti Kanthapuram A.P. Aboobacker Musliyar met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi on Monday, holding wide-ranging discussions on social, humanitarian, educational and developmental issues, with particular emphasis on minority welfare and national harmony.
According to a statement shared by Kanthapuram on social media, the meeting covered key concerns that had emerged from various sections of society during his recent visit to Kerala. He said he brought these matters directly to the Prime Minister’s attention, stressing the need for inclusive growth that accommodates all communities.
The Grand Mufti highlighted the importance of ensuring development that is not only economically progressive but also attentive to human development indicators and overall happiness. He underlined the need for equitable and regionally balanced allocation of resources in proportion to population demographics. Issues relating to Waqf and the SIR process were also discussed, along with concerns about protecting ancient mosques and Islamic heritage monuments across the country.
Kanthapuram urged the restoration of minority-focused educational welfare schemes, including the Maulana Azad National Fellowship, and called for further development of the Aligarh Muslim University’s Malappuram Centre in Kerala. He also emphasised the importance of sustained engagement between the Union government and minority communities to strengthen trust and cooperation.
On the international front, the Grand Mufti commended Prime Minister Modi’s diplomatic initiatives aimed at promoting peace and stability globally. He appreciated India’s proactive role in international affairs under Modi’s leadership.
Prime Minister Modi, in turn, acknowledged the educational and social welfare initiatives undertaken by organisations under the leadership of Kanthapuram, including the Samastha Kerala Jamiat-ul-Ulema and Markaz institutions. He reportedly described their contributions to education and community service as commendable.
The meeting was also attended by Samastha Kerala Jamiat-ul-Ulema Secretary Perode Abdurahman Saqafi and SYS President Dr. Muhammad Abdul Hakeem Azhari, among others.
The interaction is being viewed as a significant outreach effort, reflecting dialogue between religious leadership and the highest levels of government on issues of development, heritage preservation and minority welfare.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman
