Why does Mani Shankar Aiyar want to stay connected with the Muslim community?
Synopsis
In an inspiring address at the Millat Times Conclave, Mani Shankar Aiyar emphasizes the importance of solidarity with the Muslim community, pledging unwavering support and questioning India's diplomatic stance with Pakistan. His reflections on the integral role of Muslims in India's fabric resonate deeply, urging conversations around unity and peace.
Key Takeaways
Mani Shankar Aiyar emphasizes solidarity with the Muslim community .
The Millat Times Conclave 2026 serves as a platform for crucial discussions.
Aiyar reflects on the vital role of Muslims in India's identity.
He questions the diplomatic stance towards Pakistan .
Aiyar calls for dialogue and unity in contemporary politics.
New Delhi, Feb 3 (NationPress) Senior Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar conveyed heartfelt appreciation and unity with the Muslim community during his speech at the Millat Times Conclave 2026, hosted at the India Islamic Cultural Centre.
The occasion celebrated the anniversary of Millat Times, a platform dedicated to journalism and public-interest matters, which included a special interview and an open Q&A with Aiyar.
Addressing an attentive crowd, Aiyar expressed his joy at being invited by Millat Times.
In a statement to IANS, he highlighted the significance of the invitation, as it provided him a chance to directly connect with members of the Muslim community.
He expressed his gratitude to the organizers for this opportunity, declaring, “Main pratigya karta hoon ki main unka saath doonga. Main hamesha hamare Musalmano ke saath rehna chahta hoon, kyunki jaisa maine kaha Musalman is desh ka atoot ang hai...” (I pledge that I will stand with them. I always want to remain with our Muslim community, because as I said, Muslims are an inseparable part of this nation.)
Aiyar highlighted the profound role of Muslims in India's national identity, describing them as an essential and irreplaceable component of the country, inspired by Maulana Abul Kalam Azad's renowned metaphor.
He referenced Azad’s assertion that Muslims are a critical pillar of the nation's structure, stating that their removal would lead to the collapse of the entire edifice.
In a prior conversation with IANS, Aiyar questioned India's ongoing animosity towards Pakistan while simultaneously being open to diplomatic relations with China, especially considering China's military support for Pakistan during recent tensions.
“When India and Pakistan engaged in military conflict during 'Operation Sindoor', the Chinese Army was assisting the Pakistani Air Force. If we can engage in dialogue with Beijing, why not with Islamabad?” he remarked.
Aiyar also referred to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's statement during his visit to Russia, emphasizing that “this is not an era of war” and that dialogue and diplomacy should be the only pathways to resolution, questioning why this principle does not extend to India's relationship with Pakistan.
“The Chinese Army was backing the Pakistani Air Force during the conflict. If the government is open to discussions with China, then why not with Pakistan? PM Modi has said that this is not an era of war, so why are we still in conflict with Pakistan? He mentioned to Russia that dialogue and diplomacy are the only way forward, yet we do not engage in such efforts with Pakistan,” Aiyar stated.
Point of View
It is critical to recognize the significance of Mani Shankar Aiyar's remarks on unity and solidarity with the Muslim community in India. His advocacy for dialogue, especially concerning relations with Pakistan, sheds light on the broader narrative of inclusion and understanding that is essential for national cohesion.
NationPress
28 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Mani Shankar Aiyar say about the Muslim community?
He expressed a strong commitment to remain with the Muslim community, emphasizing their integral role in India's national identity.
Why is Aiyar's statement significant?
Aiyar's remarks highlight the importance of unity and inclusivity, particularly in the context of India's socio-political landscape.
What issue did Aiyar raise regarding India and Pakistan?
He questioned why diplomatic dialogue is possible with China but not with Pakistan, urging a reevaluation of India's approach towards its neighbor.
