Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju described Urdu as "the most beautiful language in the world" and said harmony between Hindus and Muslims is essential for the country's progress and unity.
He was speaking at the 105th Foundation Day celebrations of Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI), which was inaugurated at the university in the presence of Vice Chancellor Prof Mazhar Asif, Registrar Md. Mahtab Alam Rizvi, and the Dean of Students Welfare, Neelofer Afzal.
The event began with a Guard of Honour and the recitation of verses from the Quran, followed by a rendition of the university's 'Tarana' by school students.
It also marked the opening of JMI's six-day educational and cultural fair -- the iconic Talimi Mela -- returning in full scale after more than a decade, a statement from the university said.
Rijiju released a special issue of 'Jauhar,' the university's newsletter revived after eight years, and Jamia’s Annual Report.
Praising the institute as "the tallest example of India's composite culture", the minister said, "JMI should continue to send out the most powerful message of unity, nationalism and brotherhood to the entire nation." He paid tributes to the university's founders and recalled the support extended by Mahatma Gandhi, Rabindranath Tagore, Sarojini Naidu and Maulana Abul Kalam Azad during its early years.
"Jamia is unmatched in academic rigour and cultural richness; it holds a special place in my heart," Rijiju said.
Lauding the implementation of the National Education Policy at the university, the minister said he was "highly impressed" with its academic record and national ranking.
Emphasising the importance of open debate in a democracy, he said, "In our democracy, people express their views aggressively, which sometimes creates polarisation. But that is not necessarily bad so long as it does not harm the country." Rijiju noted that while Parliament often witnesses noisy debates, it remains the best platform for diverse opinions to be expressed.
"As Parliamentary Affairs Minister, it is sometimes tough to run the House; but chaos in Parliament is a sign of a vibrant democracy," he said, adding that despite disruptions, crucial legislation is eventually passed "in the interest of the nation".
The minister also underlined India's constitutional strength and diversity. "Because of the Constitution, we will be safe, as it covers every aspect of a problem and provides a solution for it," he said.
Rijiju added that maintaining social harmony is a collective responsibility. "Of the six recognised minorities, Muslims form about 80 per cent. It is the responsibility of the larger communities -- Hindus and Muslims -- to ensure harmony. If they live in peace, then all other smaller communities will also continue to contribute to the growth of the country. Jamia Millia Islamia is the best symbol from where such a message can go out," he said.
The minister announced support from the Minority Affairs Ministry for JMI's infrastructure, including a larger auditorium, new research facilities, and an air-conditioned library for the Residential Coaching Academy.
The ministry has also sanctioned Rs 181 crore for hostels and smart classrooms, university officials said.
(With PTI inputs)
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