Bhakti Chalak/Pune

A young woman wearing a hijab is directing traffic on the streets of Mumbra, a muslim majority area Mumbai and a video of this scene posted on social media makes her a social media sensation two years ago. During Ramadan, this young woman and her friends manage traffic late into the night, even till 2 AM, in Mumbra.

She is Marzia Shanu Pathan, a social worker from Mumbara, Mumbai, maharashtra.

Through her social work, Marzia is always in the spotlight. She voices concerns for underprivileged and minority groups and. Recently she was appointed as the National Working President of the Nationalist Student Congress, an affiliate of the National Congress Party faction led by Sharad Pawar’s faction.

Marzia Patan being falicitated by NCP chief Sharad Pawar

Marzia received her appointment letter from Sharad Pawar, the party's National President, and Jitendra Awhad, the party's National General Secretary.

Marzia told Awaz-the Voice, Marathi, “This position comes with significant responsibility. I aim to work extensively for youth and students, especially in education. I intend to address the many issues students face.”

Marzia stated, “Due to financial hardships, students are facing numerous challenges these days. My focus will be on ensuring government scholarships reach them. Often, essential government schemes are announced for the needy sections, but due to administrative apathy or lack of awareness, many remain unaware of these schemes. I want to bridge the gap so no one is left out. Our country will progress only if today’s generation is educated. Therefore, resolving youth issues will remain my priority.”

While speaking about Marzia’s contributions, Jitendra Awhad once compared her to Malala Yousafzai, saying, “After the Taliban captured Pakistan’s Swat Valley, Malala fought for her right to education, even taking a bullet in 2012. Later, a protest for women's education rights was organized in Mumbra, led by a young Marzia, just 10-12 years old then. Since that time, I’ve seen her work. I firmly believe this young woman is poised to lead not just Mumbra, but all of Maharashtra.”

Marzia Pathan with eye surgery patients

Marzia is known as a spirited young activist in Thane. She is the daughter of Ashraf Shanu Pathan, former Leader of the Opposition in the Thane Municipal Corporation.

This father-daughter duo has been working to address fundamental issues in Thane for years, from water and waste management to health and women’s safety. Marzia’s activism has helped resolve various issues in Mumbra and Thane.Through her organization, MSP Care Foundation, Marzia began her social work journey. An educated leader, she actively represents student concerns to the administration. She also organizes awareness programs on the Constitution among students and youth. Under her leadership, Mumbra hosts monthly eye-checkup camps for residents, where cataract surgeries are provided free of charge for senior citizens.

Marzia Pathan in her school

Recently, the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) recommended halting funding for madrasas to the Chief Secretaries of all states and union territories. They also proposed recording the attendance of children in these madrasas, which created a national uproar. However, the Supreme Court recently stayed NCPCR’s recommendation.

In response, Marzia made efforts at her level to prevent the discontinuation of madrasa education. Through videos, she passionately explained why funding and the traditional teaching methods in madrasas are essential, and her video went viral.

In the charged political climate of the Maharashtra Assembly elections, her appointment brings a significant boost to the party.

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Marzia’s robust social work, dedication to following through on initiatives, strong grassroots connections, and social media presence will help expand the party’s organization and aid election campaigns. Wishing such a young, dynamic personality continued success in her social journey!