Hyderabad, Oct. 30: Telangana Government Advisor Mohammed Ali Shabbir has called for unity against communal hatred, stating that attempts to divide Indians on religious lines and treat any community as second-class citizens would not succeed as long as people upheld democratic and constitutional values.
He made the remarks while inaugurating the three-day exhibition and seminar, “Beyond the Divide – Countering Hate, Building Harmony”, organised by Jamaat-e-Islami Hind (JIH), Greater Hyderabad, at the Exhibition Grounds in Nampally on Friday.
Shabbir Ali appreciated the organisation’s initiative to counter misinformation, challenge communal prejudices and promote dialogue among communities.
Shabbir Ali Highlights India’s Diversity and Shared Freedom Struggle
Addressing the gathering, Shabbir Ali said India’s strength lay in its diversity, shared history and the sacrifices made by people from different religions during the freedom struggle.
He particularly recalled the contributions of Muslim religious scholars, saying several ulema had fought against British rule and sacrificed their lives for India’s independence.
Expressing concern over attempts to portray Muslims as outsiders or second-class citizens, he said such attitudes went against the inclusive spirit of the freedom movement and the constitutional principles on which the country was founded.
“Those who seek to divide people and create hatred between communities will not succeed. Organisations working for social harmony, along with secular political forces and citizens committed to national unity, will continue to protect the country’s inclusive character,” he said.
Recalling an anecdote involving Mahatma Gandhi and Kasturba Gandhi, Shabbir Ali highlighted the importance of sacrifice, public service and placing national interests above personal considerations.
He said India’s freedom struggle was a collective movement involving people from different religions and communities. He urged citizens to resist attempts to undermine this shared legacy through dialogue, education and public awareness.
JIH Exhibition Aims to Counter Misinformation and Prejudice
The Government Advisor said misconceptions about Muslims and Islam had contributed to mistrust in sections of society. He appreciated the organisers for creating a platform where difficult questions could be discussed, misinformation challenged and misunderstandings addressed through facts.
He said constructive dialogue was essential to counter prejudice, particularly when false narratives and divisive messages were influencing public opinion.
Congratulating Jamaat-e-Islami Hind, Shabbir Ali conveyed his appreciation on behalf of the Telangana Government, Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy and citizens and organisations committed to communal harmony.
He expressed hope that the exhibition would promote mutual respect, remove misunderstandings and strengthen peaceful coexistence.
Three-Day Programme at Nampally Exhibition Grounds
The programme, being held from October 30 to November 1, features thematic galleries, visual presentations and interactive exhibits designed to challenge stereotypes and encourage fact-based understanding.
Seminars and panel discussions involving educationists, journalists, historians, religious scholars and intellectuals are also scheduled. The discussions will focus on communal prejudice, shared social values and peaceful coexistence in India’s pluralistic society.
JIH Telangana former President Hamed Mohammed Khan, JIH Greater Hyderabad City President Dr. Md. Mubashir Ahmed and other organisers said the initiative aimed to shift public discourse from fear and suspicion towards understanding, factual discussion and social harmony.
The exhibition will remain open from 12.30 pm to 9.30 pm on October 31 and November 1. Entry is free. Students, youth, academics, community leaders and families have been invited to attend.
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