– Raheem Khan
Jaipur: In a key decision, Rajasthan Congress has appointed senior leader MD Chopdar as the new Chairman of its Minority Department. He is from Jhunjhunu and also heads the Rajasthan Madarsa Board. The appointment order was issued by KC Venugopal, General Secretary (Organization) of the AICC.
This move is seen as a big achievement for Chopdar and part of Congress’s effort to strengthen its minority outreach, especially among Muslims. Chopdar, full name Haji Mahboob Diwan Chopdar, is a known face in the Shekhawati region and has served Congress for over 25 years.
Recognizing his dedication, the Ashok Gehlot-led government had appointed him as Madarsa Board Chairman on January 25, 2023. During his term, he brought several reforms. These included better education quality in madarsas, increased instructor salaries, and uniform distribution. His work received wide appreciation.
Chopdar is considered close to Imran Pratapgarhi, Rajya Sabha MP and National President of the Congress Minority Department. In 2023, he attended a minority leaders’ meeting with Rahul Gandhi. He also served as National Coordinator for the department’s Leadership Program.
Analysts see this appointment as a strategic move. It aims to address Chopdar’s earlier discontent. He was denied a ticket in the recent Jhunjhunu by-election, which upset the minority community and reportedly cost Congress its stronghold seat. His new post is seen as compensation and a balancing act.
As Madarsa Board Chairman, he introduced smart classes to promote technical learning. He also worked to regularize para-teachers and develop model madarsas. Now, expectations are high that he will unite the minority community and raise their concerns nationally.
Chopdar expressed happiness at the appointment. He reiterated his loyalty to the Congress and said he aims to empower minorities and strengthen the party.
Notably, his earlier appointment as Madarsa Board Chairman was challenged by the BJP government. On February 29, 2024, the Minority Department ordered his removal. Chopdar challenged this in the Rajasthan High Court. Justice Avneesh Jhingan’s bench stayed the order, allowing him to continue.
News of his new role has excited his supporters. Many Congress leaders, including Ashok Gehlot, Govind Singh Dotasra, and Sachin Pilot, congratulated him online. Supporters believe his leadership will energize the Minority Department.
Chopdar’s appointment is a political milestone and a key move by Congress to strengthen minority unity and build its structure in Rajasthan. With his long experience and strong commitment, many expect him to play a vital role in the party’s future.
