By TCN News,
Aligarh: Stating that the Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) is an epitome of secularism as Sir Syed paid special attention to develop it as a true representative of pluralistic ethos, Zafaryab Jilani, Additional Advocate General of Uttar Pradesh government and an alumnus of AMU pointed out that Sir Syed made a Christian as the first principal of MAO College and brought Babu Chandra Chakravarty as the first mathematics teacher.
Jilani, who was expressing his view as chief guest at a seminar on ‘Aligarh Movement’ organized by the AMU Students’ Union, said Sir Syed’s main objective was to create a race of highly educated people armed with modern and scientific education and a strong moral character. He appreciated the AMU administration to give students their democratic right to be represented. He said it was rare to see the healthy coordination between the students’ body and the University administration.
Zafaryab Jeelani addressing at the the seminar on Aligarh Movement at AMU
Jilani said that AMU stood as an embodiment of Aligarh Movement and the onus to carry forward this movement lied on new generations of this historical institution, a release from the AMU release said.
Referring to the issue of minority status, Jilani urged the members of AMU community to have trust in the country’s legal system and take services of eminent lawyers.
Pro-Vice Chancellor, Brigadier S Ahmad Ali, said that the Vice Chancellor Lt Gen Zameer Uddin Shah was constantly in touch with distinguished counsels in Supreme Court of India to pursue the minority status case effectively. He said that AMU has made its stand clear on the proposed Common University Act and it does not subscribe to the very idea.
Another distinguished alumnus, M T Hasan, former Mayor, Moradabad highlighted the importance of Aligarh Movement and urged Aligarians to work for its revival with a new zeal and dedication.
Zafar Alam, MLA, Aligarh urged the students and teachers to abstain from involving in local politics and help University administration to maintain academic environment on the University campus.
Dr Mohibul Haque, Department of Political Science said that efforts should be made to strengthen relationship with the Central Government. He urged the AMU administration to develop new construction projects on Islamic architecture. He appreciated the efforts of the present University administration to create a ‘Corpus Fund’ for the development of the University.
Chief Guest Mr. zafaryab Jeelani along with PVC Brig. S. Ahmad Ali and others at the seminar on Aligarh Movement
Former president of AMU Students’ Union Khalid Masood and vice president of the AMU Old Boys’ Association Azam Mir also expressed their views at the seminar.
Vice president of the AMUSU Masoodul Hasan welcomed the guests. Convener of the seminar and cabinet member Khalid Khan proposed the vote of thanks.