Pink flourished with different colors around the corner of Nuh as the stage was set out for the project by Miles2Smile. Keys2Smile’24 was an initiative taken by the organization to provide keys to those whose houses were demolished after the heinous violence against the people of Nuh when religious processions by Hindutva groups turned to clashes. The clashes took place when the rally flagged off to reach Firozpur via Nuh. The Administration later demolished close to 1200 establishments (Majority belonging to the Muslims) in the aftermath of the clashes.
From the muted looks of the time of despair to the colorful smiles of the present, Miles2Smile reached 21 families and provided them with hundreds of necessities, rebuilding the demolished houses being the most valuable ones.
As the chief guest of the event, MLA Er. Maman Khan, who represents the Firozpur Jhirka Constituency, appreciated Miles 2 Smile for such a fruitful event. “All my appreciation goes to Miles 2 Smile for inviting me to be a part of this thoughtful event. The organization has worked tirelessly, because of which 14 construction projects have taken place. I request all others to come forward and help those in need.”
The MLA, who, irrespective of his poor health, managed to offer his presence at the event, expressed his grief for the negligence of the government towards Mewat. “This is a different time, the time to rise and fight together towards a better future for our children,” Er. Khan beamed with hope for a good education.
“People today contribute online for those in crisis, and a few reach out to people on the ground to help them, and I’m thankful for this event to happen and be light in the time of darkness,” said Mr. Fajruddin Besar, the Sarpanch of Sakras. He promised to stand with those who stayed with the survivors, especially Miles2Smile.
The admiration for the name of the NGO, “Miles2Smile,” was voiced in the air when Akbar Qasmi, a social activist and author, provided appraisals for it. “Like its name suggests, the people of the organization are doing beautiful work,” Akbar Qasmi said. His speech reflected the collected motivation of the people of Mewat: “We all need to remember these three: Mulk, Millat, and Mewat. While we work towards the flourishing of Mulk (country) and Milat (community), Mewat will flourish on its own. Other than this, we need to rely on God, who sends his help in the form of different people, Aasif Mujtaba being one of them,” he added.
“My first encounter with the people of Nuh was full of despair, and on top of that, people were accused of violence; some even called them ‘stone-pelters’. Buildings were thrashed and homes destroyed, but the only thing that persisted was hope,” Aasif Mujtaba, the CEO and founder of Miles2Smiles, said.
Mujtaba recalled his memories of meeting Sabir Qasmi, one of the best-known people in town, when he visited Nuh after the violence. “Sabir Qasmi Sahab familiarized me with the community while we visited historical places, including the sacrificial Minar that has preserved 300 martyrs from the War of 1857. Mews have fought but never bowed”, Mujtaba reminded the audience of around 150 about their marvelous history as a token of hope and provided tribute to Hasan Khan Mewati, a Rajput ruler who died a brave death along with 12000 soldiers in the historical battle of Khanwa (1527) against Babar. He promised better education and medical facilities to the people of the town.
“They warned us to collect our belongings and leave but spared us no time for that. They destroyed our home, and we had to sleep under the sun and the rain for months,” said a distinct survivor who’s black kajal blended perfectly with her red suit. “No help arrived, but that from Aasif Sahab. We are finally sleeping under a proper roof”, she smiled while cradling her 3-year-old daughter.
A total of 120 blankets, 30 shawls, 90 pairs of shoes, 50 utensils, 140 packets of sanitary pads and 30 ration kits were distributed too.
Distribution of Keys to Homes & Shops
About the Miles2Smile Foundation: Established nearly four years ago, the Miles2Smile Foundation is dedicated to making a positive impact on marginalized communities in India. From the crisis response during the pandemic to ongoing efforts in education and advocacy, the foundation remains steadfast in its commitment to creating a more inclusive and equitable society.
For more information about the Miles2Smile Foundation, its impactful campaigns, initiatives, and uplifting stories, please visit the website.
