By TCN News,
New Delhi: President of India Pratibha Patil displayed her concern about issues related to welfare of Indian Muslims during a meeting with members of American Federation of Muslims of Indian Origin (AFMI). The AFMI-delegation visiting India paid a courtesy call to the Indian President on January 4.
In addition to laying stress on AFMI’s aim to achieve hundred percent literacy in India, the delegation discussed issues regarding women’s empowerment and security and progress of minority community, particularly Muslims. Patil emphasized the need to pay greater attention to health as well as education.
The AFMI delegation also called on senior Congress leader Ahmed Patel and discussed problems facing Muslims in Gujarat (Patel’s home state) and other issues which need to be given greater importance for progress of Indian Muslims.
Among other leaders, the AFMI delegation called on were the former Union Minister Ram Vilas Paswan.
Paswan voiced his support for implementation of Ranganath Mishra Commission Report which recommends reservation quota for minorities, with 10 percent for Muslims. He also expressed his stand on Sachar Committee Report which highlights problems faced by Indian Muslims, leading to their falling behind other communities in development. The Report says that they need to be provided “equal opportunities” to progress.
Paswan voiced a similar stand to AFMI delegates. He also voiced the need for Dalits (backward Hindus) and Muslims to align as a strong political force.