In 1980-81, Muslim students in Delhi dreamed up the idea of a community centre, initially calling it “India Islamic Centre.” Abrar Ahmed, a founding member and former bureaucrat, shared how they approached Prime Minister Indira Gandhi with their plan. Gandhi quickly agreed to give land for the project, adding “Cultural” to its name.
Land Troubles and Close Calls
The IICC faced challenges in keeping its prime land. Abrar Ahmed revealed that the government almost cancelled the land allotment twice due to construction delays. Once, they nearly gave it to a South Indian NGO. Ahmed worked hard to stop the cancellation.
Another time, Hakim Abdul Hameed of Hamdard India, who had paid Rs 10 lakh for the land, tried to claim it for his company’s research centre. Ahmed strongly opposed this, reminding Hameed that the land was for the community. After talks, Hameed understood and backed down.
Building the Dream
Getting the land and registering the IICC took a lot of work. Ahmed helped with land allotment, registration, and making rules for the organisation. In the 1990s, he was part of a team that raised Rs 10 crore through donations to build the IICC.
The centre’s roots go back to when many Muslim students came to Delhi to prepare for competitive exams. They stayed at the house of Lok Sabha member Chaudhary Tayyab Hussain from Mewat.
Today, the IICC stands 72,000 square feet in New Delhi’s Lutyens zone. Ahmed, an alumnus of Aligarh Muslim University like many early supporters, is now running for IICC President in the August 11 elections.
The story of IICC shows how a student’s dream grew into a major cultural centre, overcoming many hurdles along the way. It stands as a testament to the power of community effort and perseverance.
For detailed story, please visit: Awaz the voice
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