A delegation of Indian Muslims for Progress and Reforms (IMPAR), comprising eminent professionals, former judges, defence experts, civil society leaders, and industry representatives, met Defence Minister Rajnath Singh to discuss strengthening social harmony, reinforcing India’s plural ethos, and building institutional partnerships as India’s global role expands.
The meeting focused on nation-building, internal cohesion, and constitutional values. The delegation stressed that unity in diversity is central to India’s internal security, democratic resilience, and global credibility.
IMPAR General Secretary Nesar Ahmed said the interaction aimed at “building bridges, restoring mutual trust, and ensuring every citizen feels secure, respected, and equally invested in India’s progress.”
Vice President Javed Yunus flagged concerns over rising social anxieties and hate-driven incidents, underlining that the rule of law and constitutional discipline must prevail over vigilantism and divisive rhetoric.
Khwaja Shahid, Member, Board of Trustees, India Islamic Cultural Centre, said the engagement was about “safeguarding India’s constitutional framework and civilisational values through dialogue, not appeasement or confrontation.”
Responding, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh affirmed that unity and social harmony are fundamental to national security. He reiterated that all citizens enjoy equal rights and responsibilities under the Constitution and assured continued dialogue with community leaders to address concerns through institutional engagement.
The delegation reiterated Indian Muslims’ commitment to India’s prosperity, security, and development, emphasising responsible citizenship, adherence to the rule of law, and rejection of extremism in all forms. Both sides highlighted the need for structured government–civil society engagement, confidence-building at the community level, responsible public communication, and coordinated efforts to prevent the escalation of hate-driven incidents.
The members of the delegation included Mr. Z. U. Khan, former High Court Judge; Mr. Qamar Agha, journalist and defence expert; Mr. Roshan Baig; Dr. MJ Khan; Prof. Khwaja Mohammed Shahid; Mr. Javed Yunus; Mr. Nesar Ahmad; Col. A. H. Khan; Mr. Siraj Qureshi; Dr. Nida Fatima Hazari; Ms. Tehseen Zaidi; Dr. Tajwar Mohammed Khan; Mr. Athar Ali; Mr. Mohammad Ahmed; Dr. Nakhat A. Naqvi; Mr. Akhtar Ali Khan; Mr. Ibrahim Ahmad; and, among others.