INDIAN MUSLIMS

development of Muslims is a primary condition for the pristine Islamic teachings to be propagated. For this development the Muslims have to unilaterally adopt the policy of avoidance and eschew all words and deeds which could produce communal hatred. No plans of reconstruction can materialize without their doing so. Only if they learn to bear all kinds of afflictions real or imaginary with patience and fortitude will they be able to engage in their own reconstruction. Apart from making up for their backwardness in educational, economic and scientific fields, Muslims should develop themselves in the field of journalism. Journalism has an important role to play in this reconstruction. In the light of the Quranic wisdom, the true role of the press should be constructive, not expostulatory. Of course the press should have a powerful reach, but it must cultivate the kind of constructive thinking which will lead to a regeneration of the Muslim community. Another important point is that any community paper which is brought out should be of very high standard. Muslim periodicals should be published in the mother tongue of their readers, so that language may not prove an obstacle to bring about an awareness of the times and a sense of commitment at the community level. They should not encourage the lodging of protests and instead point the way to modern opportunities with exhortations to make the best possible use of them. It is essential to cultivate journalistic consciousness among the educated class of Muslims. Problems and difficulties should not be made into serious issues, considering that in this world it is hardly possible to have a completely problem-free life. It must be borne in mind that God’s law for this world provides for difficulties and ease to exist side by side at all times. With a clear understanding of the creation plan of God and a firm faith in God Muslims together with everyone else should work unitedly towards the development of this country and towards a peaceful and harmonious future. o CPS International, a non-profit, non-governmental and non-political organisation helps individuals de-condition and re-engineer their minds towards positivity and peace through its literature. 'Spirit of Islam' magazine is the English voice of the CPS mission. (www.cpsglobal.org). It must be borne in mind that God's law for this world provides for difficulties and ease to exist side by side at all times.