Zakat System Helping People Become Self-Sufficient: Mufti Ashfaq Qazi

Mumbai, February 19, 2025: The Zakat Center India (ZCI) Mumbai Chapter held its annual meeting on February 16, 2025, at Islam Gymkhana, where Mufti Ashfaq Qazi, Vice President of ZCI, highlighted how the collective zakat system is transforming lives. He stated, “Alhamdulillah, in the last three years, ZCI’s efforts have helped hundreds of people become self-sufficient.”

During the event, Zameerul Hasan presented the annual report, revealing that a total of ₹68.55 lakh was collected this year, with ₹40.78 lakh received during Ramadan and the remaining amount collected later. Through six different aid programs, ZCI distributed ₹47.46 lakh to 179 beneficiaries to support their businesses. Additionally, training workshops were conducted to equip recipients with essential entrepreneurial skills. A video presentation showcased inspiring success stories of individuals who had achieved financial independence through ZCI’s assistance.

Hasan emphasized ZCI’s transparent and fair distribution process, ensuring that aid is given only after a thorough verification process, with no room for favoritism. He explained that financial assistance is provided strictly through cheques, which are either paid directly to vendors supplying business materials or given to beneficiaries. To maintain accountability, all transactions are documented with receipts, images, and bills.

Former MLA and Islam Gymkhana Chairman, Yusuf Abrahani, commended ZCI’s work, stating that mismanaged zakat funds often keep families dependent for generations, but ZCI is breaking this cycle by empowering individuals. He also announced plans to host a donor meeting and iftar gathering at Islam Gymkhana to encourage more people to support the initiative. Iqbal Memon Officer lauded ZCI’s mission and assured both personal and community support, emphasizing that zakat’s true purpose is to help people become financially independent.

Social activist Shaheen Qadri shared her experience of using zakat to support 94 female students in higher education and encouraged ZCI to expand its efforts in the education sector. Meanwhile, Rizwan Siddiqui, Vice President of ZCI Mumbai Chapter, assured continued support, while Quraish Ahmed Siddiqui, President of Jama Masjid Nerul, announced plans to establish a ZCI branch in Navi Mumbai.

Discussing operational challenges, Zameerul Hasan highlighted the need for a permanent office, to which Advocate Zia Syed offered his Fort-based office space, an offer that was immediately accepted. Closing the event, Mufti Ashfaq Qazi reaffirmed ZCI’s commitment to expanding its mission and helping more people become self-sufficient. The gathering was attended by social workers, donors, and prominent community members, including Humayun Sheikh, head of Jamaat-e-Islami Hind, Mumbai Metro.