At the International Democratic Rights Foundation (IDRF), our leadership is defined by a shared commitment to justice, inclusion, and democratic empowerment. The individuals guiding IDRF bring together diverse expertise in human rights, law, research, education, and community development. Their collective vision and grassroots-oriented approach have shaped the foundation’s values and propelled its mission forward.
Dr. Shujat Ali Qadri Chairman, IDRF
Dr. Shujat Ali Qadri is a distinguished figure in the realm of democratic rights, interfaith dialogue, and constitutional advocacy. As Chairman of IDRF, he provides strategic leadership rooted in the principles of peace, pluralism, and civic harmony. With his decades of involvement in social movements and educational initiatives, Dr. Qadri has played a pivotal role in expanding IDRF’s influence across academic institutions, grassroots networks, and policy platforms. His leadership ensures that the foundation remains firmly grounded in non-violence, inclusivity, and democratic accountability, while remaining responsive to the needs of marginalized communities.
Dr. Faizul Hasan Director, IDRF
As Director of IDRF, Dr. Faizul Hasan and former president Aligarh Muslim University Students’ Union (AMUSU), brings a unique blend of academic insight, legal expertise, and field experience. A respected legal educator and social justice advocate, Dr. Hasan leads the foundation’s research, program development, and community outreach efforts. His work is guided by a strong belief in evidence-based action and people-centric policy design, making sure that IDRF’s programs are not only theoretically sound but also practically effective in transforming lives. Under his direction, IDRF has deepened its grassroots presence and developed scalable models for civic education and legal empowerment.
Mohd Yusuf Research Fellow, IDRF
Mohd Yusuf serves as a Research Fellow at IDRF, where he oversees data collection, field research, and policy analysis. With a solid background in social research and community-based studies, he plays a key role in informing the foundation’s advocacy strategies and program evaluations. His work is especially focused on minority rights, democratic participation, and accountability frameworks, ensuring that IDRF’s interventions are both data-driven and grounded in lived realities. Yusuf’s contributions provide critical insight into the challenges faced by vulnerable populations and help shape impactful, rights-based responses.
Advisory Committee
The Advisory Committee of the International Democratic Rights Foundation (IDRF) is composed of esteemed individuals whose collective wisdom, public engagement, and subject expertise significantly enhance the foundation’s mission. Each member brings a unique perspective rooted in decades of experience in media, academia, law, activism, and minority rights advocacy. Their insights help guide IDRF’s strategies, policy orientation, and ethical framework as the organization continues to work for a just, democratic, and inclusive society.
- Mr. Prashant Tandon Senior Journalist and Public Intellectual
Mr. Prashant Tandon is a veteran journalist known for his fearless reporting, nuanced understanding of civil liberties, and commitment to constitutional values. With over three decades in the media landscape, Mr. Tandon brings critical expertise in media ethics, public discourse, and democratic accountability. As an advisor to IDRF, he plays a key role in shaping the organization’s engagement with press freedom, media literacy, and public communication strategies. His advocacy for transparency and informed citizenry directly supports IDRF’s mission to strengthen democratic awareness at the grassroots level.
- Prof. Mohibul Haque Professor of Political Science, Aligarh Muslim University
Prof. Mohibul Hoque is a highly respected academician with deep scholarly work in constitutional law, minority rights, and political theory. His research and writings have provided crucial insights into the challenges facing democratic governance and marginalized communities in India. As an advisor to IDRF, he offers intellectual guidance on policy interventions, curriculum development, and dvocacy models. His association enhances the academic rigor of IDRF’s educational initiatives and contributes to the formulation of evidence-based programs that empower students, scholars, and community leaders alike.
- Dr. John Dayal Human Rights Activist and Former Member, National Integration Council
- Dr. John Dayal is a prominent human rights defender and journalist, known for his decades-long commitment to interfaith dialogue, social justice, and the protection of religious minorities. As a member of India’s National Integration Council and a vocal civil society leader, he has consistently championed the rights of vulnerable groups. His involvement with IDRF provides the foundation with a strong ethical anchor and helps ensure that its advocacy remains grounded in secular, inclusive, and rights-based principles. Dr. Dayal’s guidance strengthens IDRF’s national and international advocacy frameworks.
- Mohammad Adeeb Former Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha
Chairman, Indian Muslims for Civil Rights (IMCR)
Advisory Member, International Democratic Rights Foundation (IDRF)
Mohammad Adeeb is a distinguished public figure, social reformer, and former Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha), whose decades-long commitment to democratic values, minority rights, and secular governance has made him one of the most respected voices in civil society today. As the Chairman of Indian Muslims for Civil Rights (IMCR), he continues to champion the cause of constitutional justice, communal harmony, and political inclusion for historically marginalized communities.
With his deep understanding of legislative processes and policy frameworks, Mr. Adeeb brings a unique combination of political experience and grassroots credibility to every initiative he undertakes. His role at IMCR reflects his unwavering belief in the Indian Constitution as the ultimate safeguard of civil liberties, and he has consistently worked to ensure that minority voices are heard, respected, and represented in the national discourse.
As a key advisor to the International Democratic Rights Foundation (IDRF), Mr. Adeeb provides invaluable strategic guidance and moral leadership. His insights into parliamentary democracy, legal safeguards, and inclusive development strengthen IDRF’s mission to build a more just, aware, and participatory society. Under his stewardship, both IMCR and IDRF continue to work toward a future where every citizen can live with dignity, equality, and constitutional protection regardless of faith, background, or identity.