Markaz Convocation Conference concludes in Calicut with a Strong Message of peace and co-existence
- Jamia Markaz
- February 09, 2024
- (50)
Calicut, India - The prestigious Markaz Khatmul Bukhari and Convocation conference concluded in Calicut, marking the end of an event that brought together 478 scholars and attracted thousands from across India. The conference, known for its scholarly discussions and cultural celebrations, took a decisive stance on the issue of mosque encroachment, particularly criticizing the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) for its excavation activities near religious sites.
In a significant move, the conference passed a resolution demanding the enforcement of the Protection of Places of Worship Act, accusing the ASI of failing to uphold the standards of historical research and respect for religious sites. The resolution calls for a halt to such excavations, deeming them a threat to India's internal freedom and the sanctity of places of worship.
The event saw a high-profile closure, with Markaz President Sayyed Ali Bafaqi leading the final prayer session. The conference was inaugurated by Samasta President E Sulaiman Musliar, and the convocation speech by Grand Mufti of India, Sheikh Abubakr Ahmad. Markaz Director General C Muhammad Faizi delivered the message of the conference. Jamia Markaz Rector Dr Muhammad Abdul Hakkim Azhari presented the 50th Anniversary Plan and policy document, Highlighting Markaz's achievements. Several scholars and contributors to the field were honoured with Markaz Excellency awards. The Markaz Scholarly Eminence Award, Presented to Qalam al Islam Kodampuzha Bava Musliyar, recognizing his scholarly excellence and literary merits of authoring 140 authentic books and articles; The Markaz Community Catalyst Award; Posthumously Presented to Janab Shahul Hameed Baqawi, (Late) Shanthapuram, for his diligent attempts to revolutionize primary education and Sunni networking in Northern India, Markaz Award for Fulbright Fellowship Achievement to Dr Muhammed Roshan Nurani (Vice Rector, Jamia Markaz) in recognition of his meritorious achievement of the Fulbright Nehru Post Doctoral Research Fellowships in Sociology, Markaz Impact Innovator Award to Muhammed Shafi Nurani for his activities under Delhi Thaiba Heritage in recognition of its compassionate projects, 'Food on Wheels' and educational empowerment of village and slum children of India and Markaz Award of Appreciation to Janab Ashraf Saquafi Punnath (Archives Coordinator, Malabar Foundation, Markaz Knowledge City) in recognition of his winning the Kerala Folklore Academy Yuva Prathibha Puraskaram 2024 for his esteemed contributions to the training and research of Mappilappattu.
The conference featured an array of programs, including the Markaz Global Summit and Saquafi Shura, drawing attention to the Muslim community's rich cultural and religious heritage. Speakers worldwide, including the USA, the UK, and Malaysia, addressed the gathering, underscoring the global solidarity with the Muslim community in India.
The event's resolutions and messages from the Grand Mufti echoed a call for peace, mutual respect, and the need for legal protection of religious sites and practices. The three-day event not only celebrated scholarly achievements but also positioned itself as a platform for advocating the rights and freedoms of the Muslim community on a global scale.
