TERM 1985-1988

Establishment of Hawza - "Madrassah As Seyyid El Khui"

In 1975 Ayatullahil-Uzma Abul Qasim El Khui confirmed that the situation at the Hawza at Najaf was deteriorating fast. He cautioned that mere expression of grief and sympathy is not enough. What was needed and rightly expected of the Momineen was to establish Hawza all over the world.

He laid special emphasis on Western Countries, and specifically recommended a Hawza be established at London.

Ten years after his appeal, in March 1985, a modest Hawza "Madrassah As Seyyid El Khui" was established at Birmingham to coincide with the 1400th birth anniversary of Imam Hussein (A.S.). It started with just 3 students under Principal Janab Maulana Zafar Abbas Saheb Qibla.

After a year of struggle at present there are 5 students. As the accommodation at Birmingham was temporary, it was shifted to Stanmore from November 1985.

The expenditure of this Hauza was Pound Sterling 3000 per month. Though several applications have been received it was not possible to increase the number of students due to limited funds.

The curriculum is streamlined in such a manner that the student should acquire enough Islamic knowledge in various sciences within 4 years. Subjects taught were Arabic, Usool, Fiqh, Tafsir, Hadith and ancillary sciences like Mantiq, Kalam and Falsafa etc.

As per the Executive Council Meeting report of 28th Sept 1986, five students have completed the first year at the Hawza

Report - 25th. Oct 1987

At the Executive Council meeting on 25th. Oct 1987 at Birmingham it was reported that:

Five students, who had completed two years course at the Hauza, went for Tabligh during the holy month of Ramadhan, 1407 A.H.

They visited Oldham, Burnley, Gloucester and Rugby, where they led prayers, conducted Madressa and delivered talks, almost daily.

All those benefited, appreciated their trips and requested to visit the areas more often.

The first publication of the Hauza in English “The Collection and Preservation of Quran” came out on 15th Shaban 1407 A.H. It was well received with letters of appreciation from as far as West Indies and Singapore.

Presently Maulana Zafar Abbas Malik is teaching all the students in all the subjects. Efforts are on for recruiting another Aalim from Pakistan.

Report - 11th. February 1988

The Madrassah As Seyyid El Khui is functioning with an average of 8 students and 2 tutors. Another tutor is being arranged from Pakistan. The annual cost of this Hauza is around Pound Sterling 35000 per year which is being financed from Sehme Sadat, Nazr and General Fund.

Secretary General Mr. Hasnain Walji's India Trip Report

Secretary General Hasnain Walji and Mr. Ahmed Daya visited Gujarat, India from 18th. January 1987 to 3rd. February 1987.

Bhavnagar: Following points were raised during general discussion:

1. Acute need of Housing
2. Resettlement scheme to move our people from smaller villages to larger Towns & Cities
3. Education and fate of Zainabiya Scheme

Sihore: The Jamaat is not a member of GF (Gujarat Federation). The Jamaat was self-sufficient financially and the representative claimed that they have no shortage to food and water.

Songhad: Passed by Jithri Hospital. Here we have our T.B. Beds.

Palitana: Meet members of the committee at the Mosque and saw the Boring Well that was constructed as part of our famine relief programme. The Jamaat has around 800 persons mostly Market Traders who had suffered due to drought and needed assistance.

There were 40 students on the Zainabiya Scheme and they had managed so far but assistance was required. There were 65 more potential students who could be assisted.

Thalia: A new Mosque was constructed by private donors but there was no water supply. A boring was authorized on the spot with a maximum budget of Rs. 12000.

Monpur: Rs.4000 was sanctioned to complete the plaster work of the Aalim’s house there.

Talaja: The Jamaat has over 800 persons. The plot donated by one Mr. Bhurani was dug but the construction would start when the water is available. The unit would cost Rs. 30,000. They have plan to build 8+8 units initially. It was not clear from where they would source the fund but it seems they expect it from WF. The Kabrastan appeared to be their prestige project and hence Rs. 2000 was committed to complete the boring work.

Mahuva: Shahe Najaf Complex under construction was visited and saw the space for Madressa donated by us. The extent and planning was impressive.

A visit to the Haji Sharif Orphanage was a satisfying experience where the Akhlaq of the boys was impressive.

The Jamaat with 650 families and 4000 persons seem to be well organized with funds flowing from many private sources both local and international.

There was acute shortage of housing and more and more housing schemes required due to inflow of people from adjoining villages for a better standard of housing and education. They also requested that Zainabiya Child Sponsorship Scheme to be run by the Jamaat.

Abbasi Mission Trust: They greeted us with the blackboard saying that they had 161 children on Zainabiya Child Sponsorship Scheme (Z.C.S.S.) and 163 families had been assisted by the food subsidy. A closer study revealed that the system had been tailored to suit local needs but were not compatible with our present system. The Husseininagar housing scheme had a number of units standing and more under construction. On the whole the housing was substandard. The area allocated for Sadat housing has the worst possible position in the whole plan. The cost of the unit was Rs. 14000.

Naqvi Sadat: The Naqvi Sadaat Education Society briefed of their Rs.15 Lakhs Madressa Classroom project. The cost of the plot was Rs. 107,000 and Rs.30000 was committed towards the shortfall in the purchase of the plot. A further sum of Rs.10000 was committed towards the uniforms for the Madressa and English coaching classed run by the Naqvi Sadaat Education Society.

Rajula: The Jamaat has 176 families with 1100 people. While there was no shortage of water, food subsidy would be required in later months. There were 10 students on Z.C.S.S. who has stopped receiving assistance. There are 35 students who can be assisted if the Z.C.S.S.is restarted.

Bhuj: We meet Azizbhai Kothari and other members of the Jamaat. There was no shortage of water but due to severe drought over the last three years, there was a need for food subsidy. Hussaini Welfare Society (H.W.S.) had been coordinating between all the Jamaats of Kutch, namely Bhuj, Bharapur, Kera, Mundra, Mandvi and Nagalpur.

Clarification on Relief for Kutch/Bhuj:

On Z.C.S.S., there were only 3 students through Gujarat Federation. Two more applications were received when GF had ceased the operation. We were informed that even when GF was operating the number of applications for any projects had been very few due to lack of communication and the Jamaat in Kutch were not aware of the available schemes. They confirmed that they had sent one delegate to the Conference of GF but also admitted the delegate had not reported on the proceedings.

It was agreed that the following applications would be sent through Hussaini Welfare Society (H.W.S):

1. Plans and application for the Housing Society in Bhuj
2. Applications for Famine Relief
3. Applications for business loans

At the meeting of all Kutch Jamaats (all attended except Nagalpur Jamaat) there was consensus of opinion that while Jamaats in Kutch had received assistance from G.F. and Masoomeen Trust, due to lack of communication and at times due to reluctant in asking for the assistance, the Kutch Jamaats had not received as much as required. On behalf of all the Jamaats Mr. Aunali Salehmohammad accepted that during the visit of the President of WF there had been some unpleasantness due to misunderstanding and extended apologies to Haji Haider Haji. It was observed that the G.F. had not looked after the Kutch Jamaats as much as it should have but the Kutch Jamaat should also share the blame of not making known their requirements. It was also suggested that Federation of Kutch Jamaats be formed to enable them to direct membership of the WF.

An application for Rs. 10000 from Mundra Jamaat was approved on the spot and it was agreed that all future request should be channeled through Hussaini Welfare Society. This was agreed and endorsed by all present. As a result Mr. Aziz Kothari and Aunali Salehmohammad travelled to Bombay with proposals for assistance.

A sum of Rs. 48000 was approved for famine aid to Kutch Jamaats and they were asked to forward further application for economic assistance to the Secretariat directly.

Bombay: A visit to Mumbra with Bhanabhai and other members of the Najafi Cassette Library was a real disappointment. The new site is half build and below par. However Bhanabhai had committed towards the project on the strength of our earlier intimation of support for the first scheme. There does not appear to be a way out and we will have to contribute as promised.

Shaukat Mewawala hinted that he would be willing to operate Z.C.S.S. for the whole of India. We suggested that he could perhaps set up Z.C.S.S. in Sangli as a pilot Scheme.

Hyderabad: Imam Zamana Mission (I.Z.M) and its activities are well known and we were satisfied with the progress. At a meeting on 31st. Jan 1987, the following were discussed:

1. Having seen the difficulty of transportation for the students of St. Fatima Model School and in view of their application in the past, a sum of Rs. 80,000 was committed for the purchase of a reconditioned bus.
2. Increase in Z.C.S.S. students from 200 to 300. In fact they had a request for 400 students.
3. Proposed opening of the Girls School to cater to Sadaat girls at the secondary level. The setting up expense will be RS. 80,000. They have been asked to send the application as soon as the details are ready. It would be worth considering the total sponsorship of the school as we would have a regular Sehme Sadaat Project for Education. It is worth noting that many baligh girls who are now missing out on Secondary Education will have an opportunity to be educated.
4. In Avalkonda, South India, for examples, we came across a distressing sight of debt-slavery. Young boys and girls were enslaved against debts incurred by their poor parents. They sat from dawn to dusk making BIDIS in order to earn a handful of rupees for their subsistence. The World Federation paid Rs. 17000 through Imam-e-Zamana Mission to free about 50 boys and girls from this slavery and then set itself to work for the alternative vocations and for educating the boys and girls.
5. Payment of Zainabiya: Mr. Daya clarified that Z.C.S.S. works on impress system and stated that “NO ACCOUNT NO MONEY”. Imame Zamana Mission (I.Z.M.) promised to send regular quarterly account.
6. During visit to Qayamnagar a fruitful discussion took place about the nature and our expectation of the Housing Societies. A blueprint for a model village to be established on a private plot of 8 acres would be prepared by I.Z.M.

Recommendations:

Visit to Towns & Villages of Gujarat was an anticlimax. It was due to sheer inadequacy of the results of the activities of our agency that engulfed us in doubt about the efficiency of our operation in Gujarat.

Let there be no mistake that the needy have been assisted, the poor, the widows and the orphans fed and clothed and the sick attended to. But our long term projects are in shambles.

The housing societies that were built several years ago are slowly degenerating into slums. The planners are to be blamed. Construction of Maximum unit per acre with minimum cost has cost us dear. We are back to square one. We will have to upgrade this to habitable accommodation with at least a cubicle with running water and some semblance of privacy. Perhaps a window and some sort of a veranda to let the light in and protect from direct sunlight. Why could this not have been done in the first place? Who is really responsible for this gross misuse of resources one may well ask. We never expected that in the name of economy our agencies would go to these lengths.

We should stop this and if we cannot, then we should plan, supervise and execute these projects ourselves.

The Cooperative societies have a list of defaulters. A close screening of the mode of their operation reveals that the organizers of the societies are more concern about the number of person they help, rather than the requirements of the applicants. Such policies resulted into people not getting enough to run their enterprises and hence are unable to cope with the running of the business due to lack of capital. This results into them being defaulters for repayment. Of course there are many ‘undeserving applicants’ who have also received assistance and hence the defaulters.

Apart from the mention of T.B. Beds, we did not see any signs of Medical Projects at all. Many places visited asked for Medical assistance. We neither had time or the capabilities of assessing the nature of assistance required. Medical Advisory Board (M.A.B.) has to look and review the situation.

Paper on 'Common Language Preservation Programme'

The Federation of K.S.I. Jamaats of Africa Secretariat presents a recommendation for adoption by the Supreme Council proposing a resolution for teaching Gujarati as compulsory subject at their Madressas. It was prepared by Alhaj Mohamed Khalfan and termed as "Common Language Preservation Programme". The whole purpose is to save our common language “GUJARATI”.

On adoption of this resolution it is recommended that this paper be submitted to World Federation Conference to be held in October 1988 at Toronto.

Miscellaneous Projects for 1985-1988

Tabligh

Proposed Milton Keynes Imambara Project

The Jamaat had been offered a prime site at Milton Keynes at a discount of 75% on the land price. The President Mr. Mahmood Datoo, on behalf of the Jamaat, has pledged that 10% of the cost would be raised locally and sought the blessings of the Council to embark upon the Project. Due to central location, the Centre could also be used for Islamic Education Board (IEB) activities like short courses, preparation of audio visuals programmes and seminars. The planning brief prepared by Muhsin Dharamsi, at the request of the Jamaat, would ensure that the Centre would have multipurpose usage such as Imambara, Madressa, Video Studio, Conference hall and Playground facility all in an area of 2000 sq. feet. The total cost of the Project would be Pound Sterling 177,000 to include cost of one acre of land and other legal and other service charges.

The Council approved the Project with the recommendation that the Office bearer liaise with the Jamaat and accord appropriate assistance.

Proposed Birmingham Jamaat Extension Project

The Jamaat is planning to build an extension to the Imambara due to expanding community in Birmingham. The extension would provide a nursery and classroom on the ground floor and flats on the first floor. The nursery would be used by mothers with the babies during Majaalis and as classroom for Madressa or playgroup. The first floor flats would be used for Students, Medical Advisory Board (MAB) patients and visitors.

The Jamaat would raise a large portion of the funds locally and requested the Council to raise the balance either by way of grants or loan or any other means thought appropriate. The Council recommended that the Office bearers liaise with the Jamaat to explore the possibilities.

Proposed Peterborough Jamaat Property for Aalim

The Jamaat at a recent meeting decided to purchase a nearby property for Pound Starling 30,000 for the purpose of Aalim's accommodation. The present accommodation for the Aalim would then be used as a Madressa.

The Council advised the Jamaat to place a formal application in writing clearly stating their need for a Madressa. The Council also recommended that no. 6 Burton Street, the Convalescent Home can also be used as Madressa, subject to discussion with the Medical Advisory Board (MAB), the Secretariat and the Jamaat.

Imambara for New York

The President of the New York Jamaat Mr. Mustafa Jaffer appealed for assistance towards the project.

Muhsin Dharamsi visited New York & informed that the property is well situated and would cater to most of the community needs. The building had a lot of potential. Out of the total requirement of $750,000, the Jamaat has collected $480,000 and $76,000 has been remitted by W.F.

Mosque/Imambada at Trollhatten

The Jamaat in Trollhatten commenced the construction work of its Mosque/Imambada Project. It will cost them approximately Pound Sterling 290000.

The foundation laying ceremony was held on 12th. April 1985. Dr. Amirali G. N. Lakha represented the World Federation at the ceremony. WF has contributed, so far, Pound Sterling 20000 to the Project.

Tahrike Tarsile Quran (T.T.Q)

This Organisation is currently involved in distributing the Holy Quran and other books on a worldwide basis. Brother Aunali Khalfan, the Organizer and Founder of T.T.Q briefed the Council on its activities.

The Council felt that while it could not recommend any financial commitment at this stage, the World Federation ought to assist the Tahrike Tarsile by buying and distributing the Books.

Aalim Grant - Sub Committee

Application for Aalim grants were received from various Jamaats and more were anticipated.

Apart from the normal requirement of the Jamaat to submit their accounts so as to justify the need, the Secretary required further guidance on certain delicate issues while considering the application.

There had been instance where the Jamaat financial conditions entitle them for grant, but the Aalim may not be entitled for several reasons. It was becoming increasingly difficult to convey such information without hurting the feelings of the Aalim concerned.

The Executive Council resolved that a subcommittee be formed to look into the ways and means of solving the problems of Grants and Recruitment.

The following were nominated to serve on the subcommittee:

1. Yusuf Sabur - Leicester
2. Mohsin G Ladak - Leeds
3. Kassamali Somani - Birmingham
4. Rafiq Hussein Shah - Watford
5. Mohsin Kassam - Essex

Leicester Imambada

Leicester Jamaat asked for aid for building a new Imambada and it was decided to pay Pound Sterling 20000.

Karimpur Imambada, India

The WF had assisted the project by donating Rs. 50000. This Imambada is now ready and in use from 23rd. of Sept 1984.

Huseini Imambada Complex, Stanmore

In response to an appeal launched on the 6th of Muharram (1985), the public, young and old, ladies and gents, contributed generously which reached the Pound Sterling 400000 mark. The construction work is expected to commence shortly.

Montreal, Quebec, Canada

Having completed the first phase of their project, Momineen in Montreal, Canada, began the use of their new Imambada premises from Moharram 1406. The opening ceremony was held on 14th Sept 1985. The World Federation has contributed Canadian 10000 to this project.

Imambada Project in Calgary, Canada

During the last Conference, a delegation from Calgary (attended as members of NASIMCO) presented their case. The World Federation has agreed to contribute Canadian Dollars 50,000 for the project.

Najafi Islamic Cassette Library

Najafi Islamic Cassette Library, Mumbai was formed in the memory of Hujjatul Islam late Ayatollah Shaikh Mohammad Husein Najafi.

It has Audio & Video Cassette of Majaalis & Masael e Shariat of different Aalims & Zakirs of Ahlulbait A.S. which are given to Momineen at very nominal charge.

They have a proposal of acquiring a building which has 24 rooms, which they intend to give to needy poor Momineen. They have asked for assistance from World Federation.

WF has given Rs. 50,000 to this institute.

Anjuman E Hussainy, Madras

WF President Haji Haider Haji visited Madras on 5th. March 1987. A sum of Rs. 750 per month for the administrative expense of the Office for Anjumane E Hussainy was approved. Rs. 3000 for March to June 1987 was paid in cash.

Shia Ishna Asheri Imambara Trust, Meta, India

An Imambara is being constructed at Meta, Vadgam, India. On submission of detailed progress report a sum of Rs. 50,000 was approved by the President Haider Haji for the same.

Mulla Asghar's Pakistan Visit

Several Madressa were visited by Mulla Saheb and following contributions were given on behalf of World Federation:

1. Madressa Al Masoomeen, Karachi Rs. 61000 towards shortfall in extension work.
2. Al Murtaza School. Karachi, for Khoja Shia Ithna Asheri Rs. 500,000 was given before towards new building construction.
3. Jamiatul Ahlul Bayt, Islamabad, Rs. 100,000 to run the Madressa smoothly and complete its construction work.
4. Jamiatul Muntazar, Lahore Rs. 150,000.
5. Kullila Ahlul Bayt, Chinyot, Rs. 100,000 for completion of first floor construction.
6. Darul Ulum Jafferiya, Khoshab, Rs. 60,000, of which Rs.50, 000 for Mosque completion.
7. Madressa Jafferiya, Peshawar, Rs. 50,000
8. Waghreji Madressa in Sindh Rs.200,000

Apart from above Rs. 30,000 from Sehme Sadat was paid for distribution among Sadats of Shah Alladitta and Rs. 40,000 in Rawalpindi and elsewhere.

Imam E Zamana Mission

The Council was briefed on the work of Imam E Zamana Mission work in Hyderabad. Their main aim is to give every Shia in Hyderabad an opportunity for education and to improve health. Of the children being helped, 400 are under the Zainabiya Child Sponsorship Scheme of the World Federation. A very large number is of Sadats.

Samuh Lagna

Jammu-Kashmir

As per WF circular dated 5th July 1984, Sadat Samuh Lagna were arranged in Jammu-Kashmir for the first time among Syed families. The WF paid Rs.30, 000 from Sehme Sadat for 21 marriages.

Bhavnagar

As per WF circular dated 16th. April 1985,for the seventh consecutive year, a programme of Samuh Lagna was held by the Gujarat Federation at Bhavnagar, India. 35 marriages were solemnized with a contribution of Rs. 60,000 from World Federation.

Relief Work

Starving Humanity in Ethiopia

The World Federation has received several inquiries from the Momineen about the possibility of extending assistance to the famine stricken Ethiopian. The Jamaats were requested to give this appeal the widest possible publicity among its members and send their contribution to the Secretariat so that a joint contribution can be made from our community.

Pound Sterling 10000 received from various Jamaats and individuals towards Ethiopia Relief has been officially handed to UNICEF by WF Secretary General Mr. Hasnain Walji. UNICEF assured Mr. Walji that every penny of our contribution will go to alleviate the grave situation in Ethiopia.

Accommodation for Kutch Momineen

A meeting was held on 24th April 1983 at the residence of Mr. Fidahussein G Daterdina.

A delegation comprising of Mr. Anwar Rajpar, Vice President of WF, Mr. Mohammad Jaffer K Gulam Hussein, Vice President, Mehfil e Murtaza, and Mr. Fidahussein Gulamhussein, Honorary Treasurer of Mehfil e Murtaza and Executive Councilor of the World Federation visited Kutch to survey the living conditions of our brothers.

Mr. Fidahussein explained in detail that the condition of our brothers is not upto the standard since they do not have any Job opportunities. They also cannot go into Business due to finance paucity and heavy competition.

It was decided to help the Kutch Momineen as follows through Huseini Welfare Society and Huseini Cooperative Housing Society:

1. Rs.180,000 be sent for the purchase of land for constructing housing for 60 families
2. Rs. 500.000 is raised for various social and religious activities of Khoja community in various towns of Kutch.

50% of the total 500,000 was offered by the delegates attending the meeting and balance 50% would be contributed by World Federation.

Islamic Education Board (I.E.B.)

Report - 8th. July 1984

At the Executive Council meeting on 8th. July 1984 at Birmingham the Chairman of the I.E.B. reported that:

1. Hajj Booklet completed and distributed
2. Salaat book was in the final stages of preparation
3. Shia Academy was holding classes in 3 parts of London
4. The Basic correspondence course on Islam has been temporarily suspended
5. Video Cassette on Salaat was in the final stages of preparation
6. The Council has a preview of the matter completed so far.

The Council recommended that as the I.E.B had done little in terms of coordination of Madrassas apart from issuing syllabus, a special effort to be put in to activate I.E.B. Sub Committees as per its original terms of reference and assist the running and formation of Madrassas under Jamaats.

Report 28th. Oct 1984

At the Executive council meeting held in Bletchley, Milton Keynes, on 28th. Oct 1984, it was resolved to appoint a subcommittee which would look into the present running of the Islamic Education Board (I.E.B.), and propose necessary changes in its composition for the sake of better functioning. The following were elected to the Sub Committee:

1. Mr. Mustafa Chandoo – London
2. Mr. Naushad Merali – Birmingham
3. Mr. Mohamed Alibhai – Milton Keynes
4. Mr. Mahmood Hooda – Peterborough
5. Mr. Taha Dharsi – London
6. Mr. Abdul Husain Akbar - London

Mr. Abdulhusein Akbar was appointed a Convener.

The terms of reference:

1. To make an appraisal of the present running of the I.E.B. and access its potentiality
2. To recommend and suggest a future working plan for the I.E.B with special emphasis on the basic needs for our children in Madrassa.
3. The Composition of I.E.B.

Report - 15th. Dec 1985

At the Executive Council meeting on 15th. Dec 1985 at Stanmore Mulla Asgar (Asghar Ali M.M Jaffer) briefed the Council on the activities of the I.E.B.

1. The following five members have been nominated to serve on I.E.B:

1. Dr. Hasnain Walji
2. Mr. Mohsin Haji Ali
3. Yusuf Sabur
4. Abdulhusein Akbar
5. Mahmood Hooda

2. A publication to cater for the report on the activities of Madrassa all over the world, named Al Madrassah had been initiated and the first issue had already been circulated.

3. Video Cassette on Salaat is ready for circulation. The current priority of the I.E.B would be suitable Textbooks for Madrassa, Teachers Training Seminars and Workshops.

4. Copies of the Bilal Trust talk show on Radio Tanzania would be circulated as soon as received by I.E.B.

5. Mr. Mahmood Hooda informed about a Youth Seminar to be held at Peterborough over the Christmas Holidays and the Jamaats should send Youths to this Seminar.

It was also recommended that in future, if possible, all Seminars should be held with the coordination of I.E.B to give wider coverage.

Report - 20th. April 1986

At the Executive Council meeting on 20th. April 1986 at Peterborough the Chairman of the I.E.B. reported that:

1. The activities of I.E.B. are on the increase.
2. The original brief is now been implemented and the I.E.B is in touch with Madressa Worldwide.
3. A publication of Tadabbur Fil Quran is now being prepared. It has unique features with color photographs on creation accompanied with Ayats from the Holy Quran.
4. Also 2 issues of Al Madrassah have been published and a third one is being prepared.
5. In the meantime the work of Book distribution is carried out.

Report - 28th. Sept 1986

At the Executive Council meeting on 28th. Sept 1986 at Milton Keynes the Chairman of the I.E.B. reported that:

1. The Salaat Video Cassette is now being distributed to Madrassah worldwide.
2. The publication Al Madarassah has been well received and the I.E.B. was in the process issuing the fourth issue.

Report 30 Dec 1986

A meeting of I.E.B. was held on 30th Dec 1986 at the Secretariat to consider the following:

1. New Syllabus of Quran
2. Text Books
3. Teachers Training

The new syllabus “Easy Steps in Quran Reading” was approved. It has already been sent to Africa, Canada and UK Jamaats. The Madrassas have been requested to send us feedback on it.

London Jamaat Madrasa had found it very effective and useful and several sessions were held in London to train teachers of Quran on use of the syllabus.

All the Madrassas have been asking for set Text Books on different subjects. So far, the publications of the Islamic Seminary have been used for “Akhlaq” and of Bilal Muslim Mission for “Fiqh”. Efforts are being made to produce precise and comprehensive Text Books on Islamic History.

In conjunction with London Jamaat’s Madrasa, a seminar on Islamic History was held and work entrusted to teachers to produce such a Text Book. Notes of Islamic History, produced by different madrassas, are available but it will take quite some time before a really satisfactory reliable and graded Text Book on Islamic History is produced for use in our Madrasas.

The new syllabus at Nairobi by the Africa Federation has been sent to many Madrasas in U.K. and Canada with a request to submit their comments.

The Haidery Madrasa of South London have requested for a Teacher’s Training Course to be held during summer for a four day period. They have been requested to obtain agreement of at least eight teachers to attend for the course to be mounted by I.E.B.

The “Elements of Islam” and “As Salaat” (Book & Video) have been sent to all Shia Madrasas in U.K. (even to nonmembers of the World Federation). The I.E.B. intends to extend its services to all the Shias- members and nonmembers.

Due to great demand for a booklet on “Namaze Jamaat”, a tract has been published which is now out for distribution.

Three lectures on the Life of the Prophet – a series conducted by Mulla Asgharali M. M. Jaffer – is now available in video and is for sale at Pound Sterling 10 each.

The Birmingham Jamaat requested for WF assistance is reorganization of their Madrasa. Brother Mohsin Jaffer visited Birmingham on 18th. March 1987 and had a meeting with Teachers of the Madrasa and the Office bearers of the Jamaat. Maximum co-operation is being given to Birmingham Jamaat in the reorganization.

Report - 29th. March 1987

At the Executive Council meeting on 29th. March 1987 at Stanmore the Chairman of the I.E.B. reported that:

1. The Textbooks supplied to Madressa are from Bilal Muslim Mission and Islamic Seminary.
2. A booklet has been published recently on the guidelines for Namaz e Jamaat.
3. Other publication to come is on The Life of Prophet and on the compilation of Hadith.
4. Video Cassettes on Salaat, The Life of Prophet and other Lectures had been prepared.
5. The activities of I.E.B. are extended even beyond the membership of WF and all requests from other organisations and individuals were attended to.
6. The Secretariat had been now able to obtain books of the Islamic Seminary written in French. The President of the Paris Jamaat was requested to inform the Council about the activities of the Jamaat, the Madressa and the assistance that could be availed to Jamaat.

Report - 25th. Oct 1987

At the Executive Council meeting on 25th. Oct 1987 at Birmingham the Chairman of the I.E.B. reported that:

1. During his visit to Toronto Mr. Hasnain Walji attended the IEB-NASIMCO meeting & discussed a number of items. An agreement was worked out for a better and closer liaises between IEB-NASIMCO and IEB of the World Federation.
2. In July 1987, the Chairman of IEB-NASIMCO, brother Mahmud Devjee visited and a full meeting of IEB was called and matters of mutual interest discussed. Representative of all our Madressa in the U.K. also attended this meeting.
3. It was agreed that as far as possible common syllabus be adopted for all our Madressa. The Secretariat is maintaining close link with the IEB-NASIMCO and cooperating in their efforts to prepare Textbooks based on common syllabus. Brother Muhsin Jaffer has been appointed to liaise with IEB-NASIMCO on behalf of I.E.B.
4. A Seminar for Madressa Teachers was held by Alhaj Mulla Asgar (Asghar Ali M.M Jaffer) from 21st to 24th. July 1987. The programme of three days was captured on Video Cassette. It was attended by 16 Teachers from Hydery and Hujjat Madressa of London.
5. Delegation of Paris Jamaat visited London and had meeting with the Chairman of I. E. B.

Report - 24th Jan 1988

At the Executive Council meeting on 24th. Jan 1988 at Leicester it was reported that:

Among the forthcoming publication is a Guide of Umrah Mufredah, "An Intermediate Course on Islam" for new converts and a major work on collection of Hadith with English translation. Once published it would be a unique translation of Shia Hadith in the English language. The project may run to Pound Sterling 20,000.

Medical Advisory Board

India Trip

Dr. M. T. I. Walji and Mohamed Daya presented a report of their trip to India with Slide and Video Presentation of the plight of our brothers and sisters both Sadat and non-Sadat.

A full detailed report was submitted to the Secretariat with the highlights as follows:

1. Eye Treatments
2. Medical Camps in various villages
3. Special cases of Heart Transplant, Kidney etc.
4. TB Beds

All the above were ongoing Projects of WF.

Dr. M. T. I. Walji sighted a case study of Dr. Hanif Lakdawala in a slum colony called Millatnagar near Ahmedabad. Dr. Lakdawala was successful in tackling the problem of Malnutrition and Health Care Immunization with the basic concept of Health Care Education rather than drugs.

It was recommended to emulate Dr. Hanif Lakdawala in areas like Govandi in Bombay.

Dr. Walji called upon the Council to maximize efforts to help the needy Sadats.

The Council responded to this emotional appeal of Dr. Walji by recommending strongly that concrete steps to be taken to organise Preventive Health Care Scheme especially for Sadats.

Stanmore

1. Dr. Amir Lakha reported on the screening programme at Stanmore and outlined a proposal of dispensary in Mombasa that the M.A.B. was studying.
2. He further stated that the London branch of the M.A.B. had now established contacts with several well-known Hospitals in London to enable our patients to have better services at these Hospitals.

Dar es Salaam

Dr. Fuad Sheriff reported that the Hospital Project at Dar as Salaam had begun and thanked Haji Haiderbhai Haji for the encouragement in initiating the Hospital Project.

He also reported on the screening programme at which 340 families had participated. The result of the survey revealed that 12% had diabetes, 15% Hypertension and 25% of the ladies were obese. These shocking results meant that the community would have to be actively involved in health education by way of seminar to change their diet. Prevention rather than treatment are given priority in the long run.

Husaini Convalescence Home

As per WF circular dated 19th. Sept 1984,Husaini Convalescence Home Peterborough is completed with the cooperation of the Trustees and the Management Committee of Peterborough Jamaat. It was officially opened on 16th. Sept 1984.

The Office bearers of the World Federation, Mr. Hasnain Walji and Mr. Ahmed Daya were among those present. The Mayor of Peterborough and the M.P. Dr. Brian Muwahiney with many other local dignitaries graced and addressed the gathering.

This Convalescence Home, under the care of Medical Advisory Board (MAB) of the World Federation, will give many medical facilities to those in needs. The Project has been named after our beloved Imam Husain (A.S.) in commemoration of his 1400th Birthday.

World Federation is particularly grateful to Mr. Abbas Nurmohamed, Mr. Mohamedhusein Nanji and Sokat Panjwani for their efforts and cooperation for preparing the property for the envisaged purpose.

Report - 29th. March 1987

The following highlights were presented at the Executive Council meeting on 29th. March 1987 at Stanmore:

1. Total of 1035 patients were attended till December 1986 with both Birmingham & London Secretariat being busy and stretched to limits.
2. Hajj Medical Mission for 1987 was ready and most of the arrangements were finalized. It was noted with concern that a group from Canada was sending a separate Medical Team.
3. Pakistan- Further progress had been made on Bimar E Karbala Clinic. The Medical Advisory Board (M.A.B.) of Pakistan had undertaken a demographic Survey Project where data on every single K.S.I in Pakistan would be collected enabling the M.A.B. to have a unique insight into the health condition of the community.
4. In India, the T. B. Bed Project is still operating. A Primary health Care Project has been initiated in conjunction with the Imam e Zamana Mission in Hyderabad.
5. Govandi, in Bombay, a Clinic will soon be started by Dr. Abbas Dost Mohamed Moledina. The Clinic is the part of the Primary Health Care Project by the M.A.B modelled on the Primary Health Care Project in Ahmedabad by Dr. Hanif Lakdawala.
6. U.K. – A screening programme was held at Birmingham where 178 persons were screened. Similar programmes are planned for Milton Keynes & Peterborough

Report - 25th. Oct 1987

M.A.B. PATIENT FLOW:

After the successful implementation of this scheme under the guidance and supervision of Dr. M. T. I. Walji and Dr. A. Lakha, an appraisal of its progress and the problems involved became necessary.

Among those benefited, majority of the patients were from Eastern Africa. This includes both, those who are financed by World Federation and those who self-financed. Other countries like Pakistan, Dubai, Iran and U.K. form considerable smaller number.

It has been observed that among those who come to UK for treatment, some do not necessarily need to come here for treatment. They can be treated safely in their own countries.

Perhaps they come here with the impression that they can get better treatment here.

It appeared that the East African Medical Committees tend to be too liberal in their recommendations. It has been observed that those who do not need partial or total assistance are sent here with full recommendations.

In some instances M.A.B has had to attend some cases which are not recommended at all. They just come here as the services of M.A.B are well known. Once here it becomes embarrassing to turn down a request.

There are also patients, who after having agreed to Self Finance demand free services pleading poverty.

Medical cases in London, involves more cost compared to Birmingham.

M.A.B. FUNDING:

The present deficit is Pound Sterling 70,000 with an upward trend. By the end of 1987, the deficit is expected to be more than Pound Sterling 100,000. This does not include Sadat Cases which are directly debited to Sahme Sadat.

In spite of repeated requests, there is no specific donations for M.A.B.

Promises and Pledges are not honoured but the demand is growing. Even after the cases are dealt with, it has been found that people overseas have a tendency to request for the prescribed medicine irrespective of whether that particular is available at their end or not. Dispensaries and Surgeries ask for stock of Medicine, accessories and implements.

In the above, following measures have been adopted: 1. M.A.B. services to be curtailed for next 12 months. 2. The WF informs those who benefits most, of our need for funds and till then, refuse to finance their recommendations. 3. Way and means be sought by which this department becomes solvent 4. A method is devised whereby voluntary workers serving on M.A.B. are not overburdened.

The Council appreciated the activities of M.A.B. and there was a consensus that the M.A.B. activities should not be curtailed. However more efforts are put to seek funds for the deficit.

Kidney Centre in Karachi

Mr. Rajpar proposed that W.F. support the Kidney Centre Project in Karachi and suggested that he would be able to raise 50% of the required funds from Pakistan.

Dr. M. T. I. Walji stated that he was impressed with the scheme and it was worth supporting.

It was approved that a special wing of Pound sterling 60,000 would be paid by our community. 30,000 would be raised in Karachi and balance 30,000 would be paid by World Federation over a period of three years at 10,000 per year.

Funds would be raised by special appeal. Mehdi Fazal pledged Pound Sterling 1000 towards each of second and third year payment.

Dr. Walji stated the scheme appeared to be a good one and he requested that the M.A.B, Karachi to send its appraisal

Sadat Medical Assistance

The Khoja Shia Ithna Asheri Medical and Welfare Society of Bombay does splendid work in various spheres of services and the WF had agreed to contribute Rs.100000 towards Sadat medical assistance through the society. The final remittance was made in August 1985.

Zainabiya Child Sponsorship Scheme (ZCSS)

At the recommendation of the subcommittee, ZCSS is set up as a new section with its own Board of management. Mr. Safdar Rehmani will head this Board. Mr. Mohsin Khimji and Hussein Sheriff will act as his assistant members. The Board has power to co-opt as many members as deem necessary for discharging the duties efficiently. The whole scheme is being reorganized.

Report - 25th Oct 1987

At the Executive Council meeting on 25th Oct 1987, Mr.Muhsin Dharamsi presented the following Report:

Children Sponsored:

A total 913 students are sponsored through more Organisations as follows:

1. 400 Imame Zamana Mission, Hyderabad, India
2. 104 Mehfile Murtaza, Karachi.
3. 325 Abbasi Mission Trusts, Mahuva
4. 22 Madressa Islamia, Khujwa, Bihar
5. 18 Tauheedul Muslimeen Trust, Lucknow
6. 8 K.S. I Medical Aid and Welfare Society, Surat
7. 20 Anjumane Hussaini, Madras
8. 16 K.S.I. Jamaat, Kutch

Sponsor Parents:

169 Sponsor Parents are sponsoring 913 students

Expansion of the Scheme:

Several Organisations have been asked to join the Scheme and those already with experience have been asked to increase the number of students under the sponsorship Scheme. About 200 more students are expected to join the Scheme before the end of the year.

A Report - September 1988

It was decided to re-launch the scheme through several organization and as of Sept 1988 338 donors are sponsoring 639 students through 12 organizations.

Also through donations of Sehme Sadat 352 Sadat students are being sponsored through 8 organizations

The present total expenditure for 991 students (Sadat and Non Sadat) is Pound Sterling 62,500 per year. The lowest financial help given is Pound Sterling 1 per month and the highest is Pound Sterling 20 per month.

Students are being sponsored for a period of 1 to 14 years studies from Kindergarten to Post Graduate studies. The monthly donation by the sponsor parent is a fixed charge of Pound Sterling 7.50 or US$ 12 or CAN $ 15.

During the next 12 months, it is hoped to double the number of students. At present 170 students are already awaiting allocation of sponsor parents.

Two more Organization, one in Bhavnagar and one in Bangalore, are in an advance state of joining the scheme and soon will be sending details of students to be sponsored.

Hajj Medical Mission (H.M.M.)

Hajj Mission 1985

The 9th Hajj Medical Mission is now ready to proceed with Dr. Moledina of Bombay, Dr. Rajpar of Trollhattan, Dr. Moledina and Dr. Nasser of Mombasa with Maulana Zafar Abbas as Aalim and Mohd Panju Jessa as administrator.

It was pointed out that a circular be sent out clearly defining the role of Hajj Medical Mission which was a WF sponsored Project and Haj Assistant Committee which was an independent Project to avoid any confusion in the community.

Hajj Mission 1986

This was the 10th year where Dr. Gulamabbas Rajpar (Sweden), Dr. Anis Lakha (U.K.) and Dr. Faiyaz Kapasi who served the Hujjaj. The team also had Haji Husein Remtullah and Haji Mohamed Panju as administrator and Maulana Syed Hassan Naqvi Saheb as a religious guide in matter of Fiqh.

Dr. T. M. I. Walji emphasized that the role of the administrators of H.M.M. which starts six months prior to Hajj to ensure that the drugs and equipment are available at the time of Hajj. During Haj, the administrator was responsible for arranging accommodation for the Doctors, Dispensary, Drug transfer, helping in emergency. All these activities are of vital importance to the mission to enable the Doctors to utilize all their time in seeing the patients.

Hajj Mission 1987

It was a successful mission with the following highlights:

1. It was the 11th Mission
2. For the first time H.M.M. manage to get its own centre right at the perimeter of the Haram
3. A fresh Graduate Doctor did part of his training in the mission as recognised part of his medical curriculum.
4. For the first time, the mission was accompanied by the Secretary General of World Federation, Mr. Hasnain Walji and Honorary Treasurer Mr. Ahmed Daya.
5. For the first time three dispensaries were working concurrently.
6. Due to heavy work load, extra Doctors who came for training became invaluable.
7. For the first severe and serious cases of Meningitis were found.
8. A British television team making documentary on Hajj filmed our work as part of their film.
9. Mr. Hasnain Walji and Ahmed Daya accompanied by Dr. Walji attended a joint meeting with the Hajj Assistance Committee group representatives and U.K. group representatives.

Youth Group

On the directive of the Executive Council, the Secretary General contacted the respective Jamaats with a view to form an active Youth Group for U.K. Written proposals to form such a body had been presented at a Sports gathering in Peterborough to all the participants. The London Jamaat had agreed to convene a meeting to form this Youth Body.

Further Mr. Sibtain Panjwani presented a draft proposal in the form of a paper enlisting the terms of reference for the operation of the Youth Body.

After deliberation and several recommendations, the Council approved the paper in principal. The finer details of the actual operation would be finalised by the Office bearers.

Gujarat Federation

At the Executive Council meeting on 20th. April 1986, Mr. Hasnain Walji presented the report on the current state of affairs of Gujarat Federation.

The unfortunate incidents related to Gujarat Federation have paralyzed most of the activities of World Federation in India. The voluntary workers who had devoted their time and money have all resigned, with no intention to serve any further.

Ever since its establishment 1979, certain Jamaats opposed it formation and remained aloof from it, refusing to become its members.

The field of work charted out for Gujarat Federation was:

1. Zainabiya Chile Sponsorship Scheme with more than 600 students of Sadat & Non Sadats sponsored under the Scheme.
2. Medical Assistance
3. Monthly Assistance to the needy.
4. Housing Projects
5. Samuh Lagna
6. Assistance to Capital Projects like Mosque, Imambara, Madrassa etc.

As is the case with any Organisation, it was not possible to satisfy all the applicants who came for assistance. As such there was an aggrieved element with the society, which gathered strength gradually as their number grew.

Dr. Kapasi, Umedali Bhanabhai and Haji Gulamali Bhanji (Bapu) were defamed. World Federation was reported to the authorities who impounded the Account Books. A criminal case was registered with the express order by the court that the World Federation must NOT cease to function and the Office bearers must continue in the Office. This paradox, displaying distrust coupled with an insistence upon the distrusted to continue in the office, cannot be explained.

At World Federation level it was decided not to answer the pamphlets and allow the dust to settle before taking any steps.

The efforts of Haji Haiderbhai Kassamali Haji, Haji Gulamali Bhanji (Bapu) and others directed towards getting the case withdrawn. It was advised that the case would be withdrawn and all the confiscated papers would be handed back. This does not in any way mean that the Gujarat Federation will resume work. The consensus in Gujarat is that the Gujarat Federation must be wound up. Haji Haiderbhai Haji also supports this as there is now a need to replace Gujarat Federation with a Trust which should be responsible to the World Federation and not any Jamaat in India.

At present activities in India are at a standstill, except the Madressa Grant which is being distributed through Masoomeen Trust, Bombay and certain projects of K.S.I. Medical and Welfare Society, Bombay

The Court case against Gujarat Federation has not been withdrawn as promised by the party who had filed the case. Hence Gujarat Federation has ceased to function.

A new team has agreed to serve the Zainabiya Child Sponsorship Scheme which will take some time to complete the legal formalities.

It must be noted that World Federation in its independent way has not stopped the assistance to the needy Shia Community of Sadat and non Sadat in India. During every visit of the President and other representatives, many families and religious projects have been assisted.

Review of activities in India-28th Sept 1986 Executive Council Meeting Report:

After separate visits by the President, Hon. Treasurer and Mulla Asgar (Asghar Ali M.M Jaffer), a full report covering Hyderabad, Bangalore, madras, Bombay (Govandi) & Gujarat Federation had been circulated by the Secretariat.

As per the Council’s recommendation, the Secretariat has embarked on a plan of activities to widen the venues of services through existing agencies other than the Gujarat Federation.

While existing Projects like Zainabiya Child Sponsorship Scheme (Z.C.S.S.), T.B. Beds and other general Medical Projects, financing of Madrassah continue in Gujarat, Projects in other areas of India have been given priority. The order of such priority is Education, Accommodations and Primary Health Care.

Z.C.S.S has been activated and 100 sponsorship have been allocated through Imam E Zaman Mission of Hyderabad. Also housing scheme for 11 Sadats have been financed at the cost Rs. 7500 per unit in Qayamnagar.

At Govandi (Bombay), the M.A.B. with the cooperation of Dr. Gulam Abbas Moledina, a Primary Health Care project is planned.

Council of Gujarat

This new body has been formed with the Headquarters in Mahuva, India with an initial fund of Rs. 70,000. It has applied for WF membership.

Nearly all the previous member Jamaats of Gujarat has enrolled themselves as members of this Council. The new office bearers of the Council are as follows:

1. Umedali G Merchant (Bhanabhai) - President 2. Vazirali I Badami (Of Mahuva) – Vice President 3. Hassanali G Merchant – Secretary 4. Gulamabbas H Farista (Talaja) – Treasurer

The Constitution of the new Council of Gujarat had provision both for individual and Jamaat Membership. Hence it’s difficult to determine if the body could be termed as a regional body representing the Jamaats or had a status of a private Trust.

The Council recommended that the final decision be deferred till the next meeting but the Council had no objection in cooperating with Gujarat Council on specific Projects.

Femine Relief

India faced worst drought this year, with parts of Gujarat widely affected. Rs. 80,000 was sent for distribution of grains in and around Mahuva with additional Rs. 60,000 allocated to Kutch. Through Haji Gulamali Bhanji WF has arranged distribution of grains to various Jamaats in Kathiawar. The whole exercise would cost WF, around Rs.300, 000 which includes relief to Sadats also. An appeal for Fund has been launched by the Secretariat.

Madagascar Crisis

Mr. Basir Hirji and Husein Hirji had travelled from Paris to brief the Council on the serious situation of our brethrens in Madagascar. Mr. Husein reported that Madagascar had 12 Jamaats with some 4500 people, most of them traders. The Community along with rest of the Indian Community in Madagascar has been the victim of widespread looting in the resend past.

The Amnesty International does not wish to take up their case as they are not considered political victims. The French Government has been requested but they have suggested as most of them have Pakistani Passports, they have to refer to the Government of Pakistan.

The main problem is that of resettlement. It would be difficult for our people to settle in Pakistan due to living condition there. The political situation is unclear. While some 10 percent of our population may be able to migrate unassisted, the rest would need assistance if it became necessary to migrate.

He appreciated the offer for financial assistance, but felt that it is not required at the moment as those who have been looted have been taken care of by the community in Madagascar.

Mr. Manzoorali Kanani reported that the cost of resettlement would be Pound Sterling 200,000 but it was felt that it could be raised locally if the permission to collect Sahme Imam could be obtained.

Mulla Asgar clarified that in the past all the Mujahedeen had allowed the use of Sahme Imam for such eventualities if the Wakil submit a report.

The Council recommended as follows:

1. To assist in obtaining services of International firm of Lawyers to lodge claims for compensation.
2. That on the spot survey is made, if possible, in conjunction with Africa Federation. In this connection, the President Haji Haider Haji was requested to visit Madagascar personally to assess the situation.
3. That the Secretariat to liaise closely with the Africa Federation to assist our brethren in Madagascar and to avoid duplication.

Further at the Executive Council meeting on 25th. Oct 1987 at Birmingham, the President, Haji Haider Haji, briefed the Council of the steps taken to help our community in Madagascar. He had visited Paris & Lisbon with some of the heads of families from Madagascar during May & Sept. U.S.D. 15000 was donated by World Federation towards immediate relief.

Tour by President Haji Haiderali Haji - A Report

AFRICA

The President visited Mauritius, Reunion Islands, Madagascar and East Africa in November 1986. At Mauritius he discussed the viability of a Hawza with the Officials of the Jamaat. At Reunion he was advised about the shortfall of the recently completed Mosque Project and also the problem of the Resident Aalim.

The main problem faced by the Jamaat in Madagascar is shortage of Aalim and following the discussion with Africa Federation he offered that during his forthcoming visit to India in Feb 1987, he would be able to assist in recruiting Aalim, if the officials of the Territorial Council, Madagascar, joined him.

He also visited Nairobi Jamaat & briefed them about the role of World Federation.

INDIA

Gujarat Federation (GF)

The President and the Hon. Treasurer took a trip to India and reported as follows:

The fate of GF was irretrievably sealed and during their visit they concentrated in identifying and seeking different agencies that would be of service to the W.F. in carrying out their Projects.

The Zainabiya Child Sponsorship Scheme was worst hit. The reestablishment of the scheme was given priority and subsequently several agencies and individual were approached with a view to revive the scheme. At present Imam E Zaman Mission, Abbasi Mission and a Madressa in Khujwa, Bihar. Three more agencies are in the process of undertaking the scheme in Bhavnagar, in Bhuj and in Sangli.

Famine Relief

While the situation this year (1987) was less serious in terms of shortage of Food & water, the long term effect of the drought were all the more visible during the Tour. Wherever necessary, assistance was sanctioned on the spot.

It was also agreed that for future requirements, the Huseini Welfare Society in Bhuj, would directly communicate with WF on behalf of all Jamaats of Kutch.

As per the Executive Council meeting of 24th. Jan 1988 at Leicester, the drought situation in Gujarat has been grave. Rs. 190,000 has been remitted to Masoomeen Trust for distribution.

Rs.99, 000 has been used for Bore wells in Palitana, Ghadhda, Thalia, Vartej, Kukad, Munfra, Kapaya, Kodinar, Mornagi, Chokdi and Talaja.

According to the Council of Gujarat, the total assistance required would be 30 lac rupees.

Long Term Projects

The long term projects like Housing and cooperative societies fell far short of expectations. Particularly the Housing Projects with a very few exceptions are substandard. To ensure that the process is not repeated it wills necessary to see that the WF is directly involved in the planning and execution of the Projects financed by WF.

Visit to other parts of India

The President, Haji Haider Haji, reported that he attended Samuh Lagna in Bhavnagar and had subsequently visited Hyderabad and Bangalore. In Hyderabad he reviewed the activities of Imam Zamana Mission (I.Z.M.) and expressed his full satisfaction at their activities which included Housing Societies for Sadat, Islamic Schools and general assistance to Sadats.

He visited Avalkunda, where the WF was instrumental in freeing small children from the yoke of Slavery. The whole village that depends on the manufacturing of Bidi has 100 percent Shia population. In conjunction with I.Z.M. alternative forms of employment were considered to free the people from unscrupulous Bidi Barons.

In Bangalore and Bihar at his initiation two other agencies would be functioning, namely Al Mehdi Welfare Society and Hussaini Association

Higher Education Scholarship

At the Conference a Budget of Pound Sterling 50,000 per annum was allocated. It was reported that the Funds are not coming from the quarters who had promised. The Secretariat to bear pressure on the parties who had assured WF at the last Conference to see that the Funds is realized.

Where does your "Sehme Imam" go ?- A Report

The following report/account was presented by World Federation at the Triennial Conference 1988 at London:

WHERE DOES YOUR SEHME IMAM GO?

One half of the Khums we pay belongs to Imam-e-Zamana (A.S.). In the era of GHAYBAH, This portion of KHUMS is managed by the great Mujtahids who are also Maraje of Taqleed.

The World Federation has been granted permission by Ayatollah Syed Abul Qasim El Khui to use fifty percent of Sehme Imam (A.S.) it collects for the laid down, accepted religious causes. Now what are they? Where & how does the World Federation spend Sehme Imam?

It spends in the following causes:

1. For the construction and purchase of religious complexes in the form of a Mosque, an Imambada, a Madrasas, Aalim’s residence, other facilities like Ghuslkhana, Musafirkhana, etc.
2. Remittance to Ayatollah Syed Abul Qasim El Khui-The other half of Sehme Imam (A.S.) is remitted to Ayatollah Syed Abul Qasim El Khoi in Najaf. He has to supervise diverse activities in the entire Shia Ithna Asheri world. Ayatollah El Khoi issues receipts for the remittance either by a block receipt to the World Federation or receipts in the names of the individual givers of KHUMS. The World Federation issues individual receipts to all the parties concerned.
3. Aalim Grant- While the World Federation has not involved itself in the appointments, transfers or movements of Ulema among its member Organizations, it certainly assists the Jamaats in obtaining the services of Ulema where possible. This is done by offering up to fifty percent grant towards the Aalim expenses. In most cases, the grant is paid from Sehme Imam (A.S.).
4. Madrassas - Our community is very much alive to the need of Madrasas and has held several Seminars and Conferences to formulate a workable programme and syllabus for the Madrassas. Many Madrassas need financial assistance and apply to WF for help. For example, while Madrassas Syllabus has been prepared, the standard text books, lesson notes, and other reference books for the teachers remain unattended as it require huge amount of investment. This is where WF comes to help.
5. Religious Publications - Islamic literature in English which portrays the teachings of Ahlul Bait (A.S.), have always been in short supply. The dearth of Shiite literature in English has adversely affected the Shia Ithna Asheri Community itself, as we see that our new generation is gradually becoming out of contact with its own mother tongues. In India and Pakistan most of the early Shia works have disappeared because they were never reprinted. Thus the field of religious publication demands attention in various ways such as Reprint of old books; Printing the manuscripts; Writing new books for reference, general readership and Madrassas; Translation work; Microfilming Books or Manuscripts

The World Federation has been doing the following with use of Sehme Imam (A.S.)

1. 5000 copies of ‘Elements of Islamic Studies’ were reprinted with permission from Bilal Mission. Note: Portuguese translation of the above is ready and Swedish translation has been assigned
2. Three Urdu reference books for Shiite scholars and general readers were published by the WF:
   1. A collection of articles on Akhlaqiyat by Marhum Syed Ghulam Askari through Tanzeemul Makatib
   2. Translation of ‘Shia Dar Islam’ by Allama Syed Muhammad Husain Taba Tabai into Urdu by Molvi Syed Ali Ibn Husain Baqari
   3. A collection of articles Shia Aqaed by Maulana Syed Saeed Akhtar Rizvi- "Ittmame Hujjat".
3. The following books were published by As-Safeena publication which is a publishing subsidiary of the World Federation:
   1. Haj
   2. Umrah
   3. Unto Thee I Grant (on Akhlaq anecdotes)
   4. Marriage
   5. The Collection and Preservation of Quran
   6. Name-e-Jamaat
   7. A first course in Islam
4. An extensive work on Selected Verses from the Holy Quran, and a collection of Hadith with both Arabic text and English translation are under print.
5. WF has remained in constant contact with other religious publishers throughout the world with the result that their publications have been successfully introduced into the quarters where the books would not have otherwise reached.

In all these efforts, Sehme Imam (A.S.) plays a very helpful role so as to meet with the ever increasing demands from all over the world.

World Federation India Activities

World Federation India Activities and Use of Sehme Sadat & Other Religious Dues - A Report presented at the Triennial Conference 1988 at London

The World Federation is actively engaged in religious, social and educational services in India. This is achieved through various institutions and Organizations which have been locally established. We give a brief report on some, with a view to giving an idea to the members about how and where Sehme Imam (A.S.), Sehme Sadat, and other religious dues like Nadhr, Sadka or specific funds for the help of widows and orphans are being utilized by us.

1. Tanzeemul Makatib, Lucknow, India: Its foundation was laid by Late Maulana Sayyid Ghulam Askari Saheb on 11th. Aug 1968. The ambition of this organization was to start at least 1000 Madrassas in India. So far, 566 Madrassas have been established in different states of India employing 879 teachers for about 23612 students. It published a set of Diniyat text books in Urdu, Hindi, Gujarati and Bengali. Each set consists of six books written by experienced teachers. The World Federation having its own chain of Madrassas in Gujarat, maintained by Masoomeen Trust. Our Madrassas and those run by other organization like Tanzeemul Makatib, have lately co-ordinated their efforts, so as to avoid unnecessary attributions or duplications. Tanzeem receives regular help from us for its various needs. They have now embarked upon constructing a building for a JAMEAH- Hauza for higher Islamic learnings. WF wishes to assist them with Rs.200000 for their capital layout.
2. Tauheedul Muslim Trust, Lucknow: Dr. Sayyid Kalbe Sadiq started this institution which would give educational grants. In the beginning, he concentrated on those students, who had somehow completed their primary education and were set for higher studies. The World Federation has contributed through them to this educational need of Sadat as well as others Shia boys and girls for getting suitable higher education. Today, we have at least one such Sayyid student in England beside many in India, doing excellent progress- all thanks to Tauheedul Muslimeen Trust. The boy in UK, Ashiq Abbas, is a Sayyid, financed by the World Federation.
3. Khoja Shia Ithna Asheri Medical Aid and Welfare Society, Bombay: During the year 1987-88, this Society spends nearly RS.650,000 for K.S.I. students and for other needy cases, and nearly Rs.10,00,000 for Mustahiq Sadat. One of the most gratifying facts about this organization is that the needs of Sadat and non-Sadat applicants are attended to with due sympathy and grace, without subjecting anyone to humiliation. Haji Shaukatali Mewawalla of Bombay serves this society with a motto to “do good, no matter to whom”. The World Federation has had the pleasure of working with this organization for last several years. Our main contribution has been for the educational assistance to K.S.I. students and for Sadat. During the year 1987/88, the World Federation contributed nearly 6 lakh rupees for Sadat and non-Sadat assistance through this organization.
4. Imam-e-Zamana Mission, Hyderabad, India: The World Federation began its activities in Gujarat and certain parts of Maharashtra, but eventually it was drawn to Hyderabad Daccan, Andra Pradesh in India. This Mission is headed by Syed Abbas Ali who has a well-established Secretariat. Syed Abbas Ali and his colleagues like Salimbhai Pirbhai travel across South India to study the general conditions of our community. In the course of their investigations, the WF has come across so many Shia Ithna Asheri settlements, Sadat and non-Sadat, who need religious as well as social care. Imam-e-Zamana Mission has made a diagnosis of the root cause of the ills which Shia Ithna Asheri community faces. This ill emanate from illiteracy. The World Federation found that this Mission has taken positive steps by establishing primary schools, classes for adult education, separate girl’s school for secondary education and even Kindergarten classes. The Mission also actively participates in every form of assistance to the poor and needy – Sadat and non-Sadat families. To work with Imam-e-Zamana Mission has been a source of spiritual satisfaction and pleasure for WF.