He said that Urdu is a cultural language of the University but English is an official language of the University.

 Prof. Shahryar was addressing the public meeting organized by the University in the evening of 26th January as part of Republic Day celebrations to felicitate its students, research scholars and teachers who have done outstanding work in their respective field.

 Prof. Shahryar further said that wearing of cap is a tradition of AMU Students’ Union and it cannot be generalized in Mushairas and other functions held in University or Aligarh Exhibition.

 About 117 students, teachers and research scholars were felicitated on this occasion for bringing laurels to the University. AMU alumna and outstanding shooter Ms. Annu Raj Singh was also felicitated at the programme for winning Gold Medal at the Common Wealth Games recently held in New Delhi.

 Presiding over the public meeting, AMU Vice Chancellor, Prof. PK Abdul Azis said that it is a recognition of the spirit of enterprise, diligence, dedication and hard work displayed by the AMU scholars and students successfully translating into outstanding achievements. The main aim of the Merit Evening is to promote excellence in AMU Campus.

The Merit Evening Award was launched in 2008 to speed up the process of academic rejuvenation exercise. The University in the last four years has honoured about 300 students, research scholars, teachers and other staff members for bringing laurels to the University.

Prof. Azis said that the Sachar Committee has testified that Muslims are backward in every walk of life and we should work for bringing change in this scenario. He said that we ought to bring change in our attitude as well.

The Aligarh Muslim University Students’ Union President (Elect) Abu Affan Farooquee also addressed the gathering. He said that the Constitution of India has given a unique identity to the AMU and we will fight for retaining its minority status. He said that a movement will be launched to ensure proper place for Urdu in the University.

Dean, Faculty of Medicine, Prof. S. Abrar Hasan and Dean, Faculty of Social Sciences, Prof. CPS Chauhan also addressed on this occasion. AMU Registrar, Prof. VK Abdul Jaleel welcomed the guests and DSW, Prof. Ainul Haq Khan proposed a vote of thank. Media Advisor and Chairman, Department of Mass Communication, Prof. NAK Durrani conducted the programme.