13/04/2026
The remarkable historical role of Islam and Muslims in the making and development of India cannot be ignored
Syed Sadatullah Husaini, Shashi Tharoor, Manoj Jha and other experts speak at a conference on Muslim history in India held in Delhi
New Delhi: A grand two-day conference commenced at the India Islamic Cultural Centre under the aegis of the “Indian History Forum.” The conference is being held under the central theme, “Revisiting the Muslim Contribution to India's History, Society and Civilization.” On the first day of the program, Shashi Tharoor (Member of Parliament, Lok Sabha), Syed Sadatullah Husaini (President, Jamaat-e-Islami Hind), Gurdip Singh Sappal (Indian National Congress leader), Mohammad Adeeb (former Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha), Manoj Kumar Jha (Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha), Ashok Kumar Pandey (author), Dr. Shadab Moosa (Convener, India History Forum), and several other scholars and distinguished personalities shared their views.
On this occasion, Shashi Tharoor said, “There is much in our history. At the same time, there are attempts to include many incorrect and unrealistic narratives as part of history. In such a situation, it is extremely important to understand the correct narrative of history, reach the truth, and present it to society.”
The President of Jamaat-e-Islami Hind, Syed Sadatullah Husaini, said that history holds great importance for any nation and country. History is not merely information, but forms the basis for building the future. He stated that the country must not forget the important part of its history related to the significant contributions of Islam and Muslims, nor fall into collective amnesia or allow personal likes and dislikes to shape historical understanding. He emphasized that conferences and programs of this nature are essential. “Today, history is being used as a tool. In such circumstances, Muslims and all those committed to justice must come forward and present the correct narrative of history before the world,” he said.
Member of Parliament Manoj Kumar Jha said that attempts are being made today to alter history, which is dangerous for democracy. “Our history is our heritage, and protecting it is our collective responsibility,” he said. Gurdip Singh Sappal remarked that efforts to change history have reached an alarming level in the country. Mohammad Adeeb said that when a civilization is to be erased, its history is altered, and this is what is happening today, which may threaten our identity.
During the conference, historians and experts presented research papers highlighting the significant contributions of Muslims in fields such as economy, trade, sociology, and politics. A special session was also held on the historical role of Muslim women.
Scholars, intellectuals, research scholars, religious leaders, social workers, and members of the public from various parts of the country participated in large numbers. The participants expressed their resolve to contribute, to the best of their ability, towards shaping an accurate narrative of history and thereby play a role in building the future of the nation and society.
