New Delhi, Sep 14: Imaam-e-Hind Dr Imam Umer Ahmed Ilyasi has called for greater national unity, social harmony and youth empowerment, stressing that Indian Muslims have an important role to play in the country’s progress while preserving their faith, identity and constitutional responsibilities.

In an exclusive interview to Brighter Kashmir, Dr Ilyasi said Indian Muslims are best in the world and they have made valuable contributions to the nation across various fields and urged the community to remain committed to education, constructive engagement, patriotism and the larger national interest.
Referring to RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat’s message that “an enemy of Muslims is an enemy of the entire country,” Ilyasi said the safety, dignity and progress of every citizen must be regarded as a shared national responsibility.
He also expressed concern over the growing drug menace, describing it as a serious threat to the future of India’s youth.
He alleged that Pakistan seeks to undermine India’s progress by promoting instability and disrupting peace, and said young people must instead be provided greater opportunities in education, employment, sports and other constructive avenues.
“Our youth are our greatest strength, and protecting them from drugs, violence and destructive influences must be a collective responsibility,” he said.
Speaking about Jammu and Kashmir, Dr Ilyasi said the abrogation of Article 370 had, in his view, opened new avenues for development and integration in the Union Territory.
He pointed to the increasing flow of tourists to Kashmir and said the growing confidence among visitors reflected an improved sense of security in the Valley. He maintained that peace and stability were essential for sustaining tourism, investment, employment and opportunities for young people.
Ilyasi also referred to major international events hosted in Jammu and Kashmir, including the G20 meetings and the recently held International Film Festival, saying such events have helped showcase the region to audiences across the world.
He said these occasions have contributed to projecting Jammu and Kashmir as a region of tourism, culture, development and growing international engagement, while reinforcing its place within India.
Dr Ilyasi stressed that Jammu and Kashmir’s development must be protected from forces seeking to disturb peace.
Any prolonged instability, he said, ultimately affects ordinary people most, particularly young people whose aspirations are tied to education, employment and a secure future.
He called for collective efforts by families, educational institutions, civil society, religious leaders and government agencies to combat the drug menace and create a healthier environment for the younger generation.
Ilyasi urged Indian Muslims to actively participate in the country’s development while promoting harmony, education and responsible citizenship.
India’s strength, he said, lies in its diversity, and communities must work together to defeat attempts to create division and strengthen the bonds that unite the country.
Dr Ilyasi said the future of India would depend greatly on how effectively its young population is empowered, educated and protected from destructive influences.
His message centred on three broad priorities: protecting youth, preserving peace and strengthening national unity—with the active participation of every community in building a peaceful, prosperous and united India.