On Friday 17 February, the Ministry of "National Heritage and Integration" sent transfer orders to Mr. Suheyl Umar, Director Iqbal Academy Pakistan, posting him to the main Ministry on attachment basis. This would have been funny if it were not true and sad.
Iqbal Academy is a statutory body created through two acts of parliament. Accordingly, its director is appointed by its Governing Body. He is not even a public servant, he is directly an employee of the Academy. Moreover, he does not draw his salary from the government exchequer but from the funds of the Academy which are collected through many sources even other than grants from the Government.
So, the order of the Ministry is illegal and a violation of the constitution. It is being challenged in Lahore High Court as it should be.
However, I am more concerned about the disaster which this hasty decision of a distant and aloof government body can bring to the future of Iqbal Studies. We all know that ever since Mr. Suheyl Umar became the director, the Academy has been taking new initiatives in spreading the message of Iqbal which had never been taken before (how many of us were even aware that an "Iqbal Academy" existed in the country?)
Quite frankly, the transfer of Mr. Suheyl Umar means an abrupt end to all this promotion of Iqbal which has been happening on international level. If you agree with me, kindly leave a comment here so that your disagreement may be seen - and pass on the request to all your friends.
Watch this space for updates.
Regards
We strongly condemn this action by the government! Shame on the Pakistani government!! They are too afraid of the revolution that will come in the lives of Pakistani youth if Iqbal's message was allowed to spread!
ReplyDeleteThey can do what they will, but the truth is, they can never stop this revolution of the hearts that was started by Iqbal.
This is really a very sad news indeed (:
ReplyDeleteI personally like Mr Suheyl sb very much and he has been working really very efficiently with a cause to spread Iqbal's message globally.
I strongly condemn this foolish Government decision and raise a petition against this decision of his transfer.
It sure is sad to learn the transfer of Suheyl Umar, without doubt he was serving this instituition well and it would not be possible for the Booard of Iqbal Academy to find his replacemeent immediately.
ReplyDeleteSuhel Umar is my 'Savior' in many respects, due him I came across such visionary personalities like Hossain Nasr, Gai Eton, etc. I hope even if he is transferred he will keep up the good work that I adore him so much for.
Naji Akbar
I completely condemn this abrupt decision of transfer of the Director Iqbal academy Pakistan. It is not only illegal but also a misuse of authority without prior intimation. This is the reason why we are lagging behind in educational growth and thus doing disservice to the national interest. Actually these are the people who need to learn the lesson of Iqbal who believe in the power of "I" and dont think about building the "nation".
ReplyDeleteMuhammad Suheyl Umar, Director Iqbal Academy Pakistan gives a brief overview of message of Peace in Allama Iqbal's poetry:
ReplyDeletehttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3OcyYCpk6G8
"A community which is inspired by feelings of ill-well towards communities, is low and ignoble. I entertain the highest respect for the customs, laws, religious and social institutions of other communities nay it is my duty according to the teachings of the Quran, even to defend their places of worship if need be"
Why would the Ministry of National Heritage and Integration take such kind of step? It does not make sense to me at all. He is a respected man. He did and still doing his duty of conveying Iqbal's message with all his capabilities. He does
ReplyDelete\ work with all his mind and heart. I am sure that everybody is satisfied with his performance. I would say, his contribution in spreading the message of Iqbal is absolutely appreciable, brilliant, and glistening like a star in sky, not only within Pakistan, but around the globe.
We need him, because the experience, and knowledge he has can help us further in future.
Honestly, I would like to request National Heritage and Integration, please take back their order.
Kind regards,
Tanveer
Why would the Ministry of National Heritage and Integration take such kind of step? It does not make sense to me at all. He is a respected man. He did and still doing his duty of conveying Iqbal's message with all his capabilities. He does work with all his mind and heart. I am sure that everybody is satisfied with his performance. I would say, his contribution in spreading the message of Iqbal is absolutely appreciable, brilliant, and glistening like a star in sky, not only within Pakistan, but around the globe.
ReplyDeleteWe need him, because the experience, and knowledge he has can help us further in future.
Honestly, I would like to request National Heritage and Integration, please take back their order.
Kind regards,
Tanveer
Not a good news.
ReplyDeleteI found his speech on Iqbal very interesting.
1/2 Suheyl Umar on Dimensions of Iqbal:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OLvUTPV7P8U
How can such a thing even be possible? This will surely be thrown - no, laughed - out of court. I'll pass on the message.
ReplyDeleteSir, this step taken by the Ministry of Heritage is quite unacceptable. You are right that we were not even aware of the existence of an Iqbal Academy before Mr. Suhayl Umar became its director, and he has most certainly done a lot to revive and promote the ideology of Iqbal both on a national and international level. Iqbal Academy has also played a major role in providing us with these enriching online courses on Iqbal's philosophy. I would hate to think that all these proceedings could come to an end due to the irresponsibility of this government. Do let me know if there are any other forums on which we can protest against this action of the ministry.
ReplyDeleteIf this distant and aloof government body can not do any good for Iqbal studies, then it should try to avoid creating problems for those who are committed to this cause at least.
ReplyDeleteIt disturbs me to hear about the transfer of Dr. Suheyl Umar. With Dr. Umar, Iqbal Studies have changed in a very interesting way putting everything into a greater perspective! I think, it is very sad, if Iqbal Academy lost such a highly spirited director. Bad, bad news, indeed.
ReplyDeleteDr. Thomas Stemmer, Sevilla, Spain
Greetings,
ReplyDeleteI come to respond to this article from three points. I speak as someone very new to the study of the life, writings, and teachings of Allama Iqbal. I live in the west, and am thus somewhat of an outsider to Pakistani culture and government. Being new to the study of Allama Iqbal's life, writings, and teachings, I have nonetheless already enthusiastically embraced this study, as I see in it such great potential for not only Pakistan, but also all of humanity.
Given the apparent pessimism that is visible in the world today, and the Islamophobia prevelant in the west, it is (I believe) nothing less than a miracle that such a voice as Allama Iqbal is still present and vital, speaking so positively about the potential for humankind to join together, as a whole, in a direction that is freshly positive. Our children and youth (in all cultures) could be nourished in so many new ways by his message. Indeed, everyone could be nourished in this way. Such a message as I see strongly articulated by Allama Iqbal stands in stark contrast to the contentious relations that appear to be today's norm across the globe.
I understand Allama Iqbal to be the national poet of Pakistan. From my study of his writings, I quickly realized that he is a powerful advocate of personal and national integrity, as only he could articulate through the powerful medium of his poetry, rooted in Islam.
If I had ever heard of an entity seeking to silence his voice, I would not ever have imagined that it would have arisen out of Pakistan. Others might perhaps work to distract attention from his teachings. But from Pakistan itself?
It is indeed odd that the works of Allama Iqbal are now filling up my home here in the west, while they may (based on the reported events in this post) now be leaving their prominence inside Pakistan (as well as internationally). May this be resolved, God willing, in such a way that the promotion of the works of Allama Iqbal continue unabated.
All good wishes,
robert
It would be a disaster to the academy as well as our learning process. I strongly protest against it and condemn it.
ReplyDeleteThe transfer of Mr. Suheyl Umar from Iqbal Academy so casually without considering what he is for Iqbal Academy will have serious consequences for the promotion of Iqbal Studies. We earnestly hope that the concerned people will take note of this erroneous decision and will take back his transfer orders.
ReplyDeleteI strongly condemn this decision of the government
ReplyDeleteIt is not only illegal but also misuse of authority & certainly an attempt to end the promotion of Iqbal studies in the country & on international level.
It should be challenged in the High Court.
I was grievly upset by this news,the iqbal academy together with dr suhayl omar has changed my life and I'm sure many others.the pakistan government should be promoting people like this,not trying to get rid of them,I strongly disagree with any such decision.
ReplyDeleteDr Suheyl Umar must be transferred back to the Academy immediately.The kind of work being done at the Academy must continue!
ReplyDeleteI agree with Khurram Ali Shafique.
ReplyDeleteThis is an erroneous decision taken by the Ministry. I strongly condemn this decision and hope that the concerned authorities will look into it to remedify the situation.
ReplyDeleteI hope that the Lahore High Court would play an effective role in reversing the decision of Mr Suheyl Umar's transfer which is indeed necessary for the Academy and for the promotion of Iqbal Studies.
ReplyDeleteI have found Dr. Suheyl Umer to be a learned scholar, passionate about Iqbalyat and a competent leader of Iqbal academy. He had been doing a great job. I am not sure why someone would try to remove him from academy illegally. If there is a valid reason to remove him from the post they should follow the ordinance and let the governing body decide free of any pressure.
ReplyDeleteIn the event that Dr Umer had to leave, they should find a more competent person who is committed to present initiatives and who could take academy to new heights. I would love to see message of Iqbal spread everywhere, it is for everyone even west can benefit from him.
I strongly disagree with this move. It is a detriment to the legacy of Iqbal, one of the greatest thinkers of the twentieth century, arguably the greatest thinker of the twentieth century to rise in the East. It is incumbent upon Pakistani academies and the government of Pakistan to ensure that Iqbal's legacy is granted the means and the support that it requires for the continuation of the important work that is being done.
ReplyDeletewe condemn this meddling in Iqbal Academy's affairs.Strongly protest posting of Dr Umer.
ReplyDeleteWe strongly condemn this posting and meddling in Iqbal Academy's affairs.
ReplyDeleteThis news is shattering and compels reversal immediately in order not to disappoint and limit the scope of many of student of Allama Iqbal via the Academy and the various heads of the same. The professional and enlightening journals have offered a more clear view of East/West and interfaith dialogue than I've ever had before.
ReplyDeleteBeginning with "Secrets of the Self" and continuing with the first Biography of Iqbal by (and illustrated by) Khurram Ali Shafique Sahib -- then going on to much more study -- including the brilliance of the courses and interactions between Shafique Sahib and the students, I have been deeply struck by the universality and particulars of truth -- the many positive and new perceptions. The lessons have changed me deeply and forever.
To all who are able to provide influence and direction in these matters, I implore you to consider the legacy you will leave behind to many who would be bereft of the competent, steady leadership as it has been for so long.
We will each be responsible for the kind of legacy we leave behind us. We must each give account of the riches or tatters we leave behind for all of our children.
Will we leave riches to help our children blossom? Or will we deprive our young of the very riches of mind, soul and heart which we ourselves have enjoyed and been transformed thereby?
i AM SO SHOCKED TO READ IT............. I DO NOT UNDERSTAND WHY THIS GOVERNMENT DOES NOT LET PEOPLE LIVE PEACEFULLY...... a SCHOLAR lIKE DR SUHEYL SHOULD BE FACILITATED NOT DISTURBED LIKE THIS...
ReplyDeleteTo whom it may concern
ReplyDeleteFor God sake, please don't follow the Wahabbis/Salafis and destroy your own heritage in the name of preservation. You are in need of Iqbal and never has there been a time greater for the revival of Iqbal studies then now.
It is upsetting to read things like this. Then, when will Pakistan learn? You're elite leave the country not wishing to return for reasons such as this.
Saqib Safdar
I know of importance of Iqbal in our life and rather taken aback at this decision. For the first time I have felt that our youngmen might have a taste of Iqbal's ideas and this happened. I strongly support this movement to roll back this decision.
ReplyDeleteDr Umar Iqbal Bhatti
I strongly oppose the decision and demand its reversal.
ReplyDeleteI support Suheyl Umer's dedicated leadership for the Academy.
This is very sad news. Mr. Suheyl Umar did great work for Iqbal Academy.
ReplyDeleteThis PPPP minister Samina Khalid Ghurki also removed Mr. Khalid Iqbal Yasir(DG Urdu Science Board) because he denied to give her Govt car and petrol for personal/political usage.
She done the same thing with MR. Suheyl Umar. All PPPP is following the way of their GREAT chairman ZARDARI.
This is very sad news. Mr. Suheyl Umar did great work for Iqbal Academy.
ReplyDeleteThis PPPP minister Samina Khalid Ghurki also removed Mr. Khalid Iqbal Yasir(DG Urdu Science Board) because he denied to give her Govt car and petrol for personal/political usage.
She done the same thing with MR. Suheyl Umar. All PPPP is following the way of their GREAT chairman ZARDARI.
I completly agree with you that this is an unjust and a deep rooted political decision to transfer Mr Suhel Umar, in the light of what you have said about him. I condemn it and oppose it tooth and nail as it is not in the interests of Iqbal academy and the lovers of Iqbal. This decision must be revoked at any cost and for that all need to unite.
ReplyDeleteDr Tasleem
It is very sorry news and it seems less to express lament as much as we can. Iqbal academy is spreading the idea of iqbal and it brings fruitful knowlege that iqbal presented. To use this centre as a tool to politicize by the government is realy condemnable. Strongly opposition. Long live to the iqbql academy.
ReplyDeleteRegards
Kashif Javaid
It is extremely sad. Iqbal Academy is an excellent spot for learning. I highly oppose this act of government.
ReplyDeleteRegards
Taniya Muhammad
Iqbal is a very notable figure in Pakistans history. Disallowing his teachings to be spread within the country as well as abroad shows us all how far the Pakistani officials have strayed from these teachings. This decision to transfer mr. Suhel must be revoked!
ReplyDeleteTo think that the magnificent illustrious gem named Dr Allama Iqbal rahmatullah alaih emerged from Pakistan is a sad reality.........the Pakistani Government should be ashamed of themselves for attempting to take such an absurd course of action!
ReplyDeleteWhatever happened to educating the masses and obliterating ignorance and creating a better future for the Pakistani people, especially the youth who are our future?? Hypocrisy at such levels is rife........may Allah Most High grant all involved in this idiotic conspiracy true guidance! Aameen.
Dr Iqbal's legacy will live on.........Shining stars never fade and gems will shine forever inshaAllah. Shame on all those attempting to put a spanner in the works......such mentally deprived individuals could learn a thing or two from the tremendously insightful and soul-searching works of Allama Iqbal rahmatullah alaih.
It is very sad to know that the government has decided to transfer,Mr.Suheyl the director.He has done a lot of good things for his country and also for those who live outside.Because of his hard work we who live outside Pakistan know about Iqbal Academy.I am so impressed by his dedication towards the academy.He has put the name Of Iqbal Academy on the map.We who are taking courses feel blessed that we are given such a splendid opportunity.
ReplyDeleteIt is always optimistic to present one's country on the forefront.I am tired of reading,watching and all sorts of accusations about a country.Be it terrorism,hijacking and bombing and all sorts of negative media blitz about their silent activities to cause harm to peaceful nations.
I would rather hear about the amazing things Pakistan's Iqbal Academy is doing and how it is beginning to make the outside world stunned
I am sure they are thinking,"really is it true?"
If one man can unselfishly do this for his country,Why would he be transferred?I really do not understand what prompted this decision.It is hard to know what the divine message is.God has from time to time sent messengers in the form of poets,religious people,entertainers.Every time we take a wrong step we suffer.Are we going to deny the divine message again?I sincerely hope not.
I am not fully aware of the structure and the framework in which this academy works, but there is no doubt, the way this academy started to send Iqbal's messages to everyone, that I have never seen in the history of Pakistan. That single evidence shows that how committed this Iqbal Academy’s team and their leadership is. We cannot blame the government and we should not even expect anything good from incompetent group of people, all we have to do is to raise and spread our voice, especially through social media, like facebook, twitter, etc. I will also ask our Pakistani lawyers, where are they now? Well I guess this time it’s not “Chief Justice” It’s Iqbal, so why they should care. So we should not depend on any of these people, we just have to spread our voice at least through social media, SMS, or use any type of media we can to let this team to continue their great work.
ReplyDeleteThe Lahore High Court, Lahore has issued stay order in Writ Petition Nos. 4143-12 and 4144-12 against the decision of the Ministry of National Heritage and Integration. Mr. Muhammad Suheyl Umar is still holding the office of the Director, Iqbal Academy Pakistan.
ReplyDeleteMs. Samina Khalid Ghurki, Federal Minister for National Heritage and Integration has summoned the members of Governing Body of the Iqbal Academy Pakistan tomorrow i.e. on February 23, 2012.
The Lahore High Court restored him in the interim today. Should win in the end too.
ReplyDeleteNot restored as such. The High Court has suspended the orders of the Ministry for time being. The case has yet to be decided by the court.
ReplyDeleteGreetings,
ReplyDeleteThank you for this update.
All good wishes,
robert
This is quite sad and in my view its another stance of government towards obscurity and ignorance.
ReplyDeleteThe most unpopular Government ever in power will regret this folly. This is another blunder will snowball the downfall of the government. I am sure the highcourt will order the re-instatement of Sohail Umar.
ReplyDeleteMaqbool M.Farhat Ilford
I wholeheartedly agree. I have known of Iqbal Academy because of Uncle Umar and his initiatives and each year his magnificent publications would add to our understanding of Iqbal. I hope and pray Uncle Umar is reinstated and that he keeps spreading the understanding of a massive genius we all love and look towards for intellectual and aesthetic guidance.
ReplyDelete