By Pervez Bari
Bhopal, July 31: The passing away of veteran Congress leader Arif Aqueel, a former minister in the Madhya Pradesh government, has left a void in the state’s political landscape, particularly for the Muslim community.
Known as “Sher-e-Bhopal,” Arif Aqueel was celebrated for his steadfast hold on the Bhopal North constituency. He was respected for his impartial approach to his duties and his belief in helping all who sought his assistance.
Aqueel’s influence extended beyond Bhopal, making him a key political figure for Muslims across Madhya Pradesh. He was also considered among the top five Congress leaders in the state. His death has left the Muslim community and the state Congress party grieving deeply.
Arif Aqueel passed away on Monday at the age of 72 in a private hospital in Bhopal after a prolonged illness. He is survived by his wife, three sons, and one daughter. His passing is mourned by thousands who saw him as a savior.
Aqueel was laid to rest at Bade Bagh Cemetery in the old city, where thousands attended his Namaz-e-Janazah. Many mourners joined in carrying his coffin to its final resting place, bidding a tearful farewell to their beloved leader.
Last year, Aqueel underwent heart surgery at Medanta Hospital in Gurugram after blockages were discovered during a medical examination. Following this, he chose not to contest the elections, and his son Atif was nominated by the Congress to run from Bhopal North. Despite his health challenges, Aqueel campaigned vigorously for his son, leading to a decisive victory for Atif.
From 1990 to 2024, the politics of Bhopal, particularly Old Bhopal, revolved around Arif Aqueel. The BJP was never able to defeat him, and his seat remained a formidable fortress for the Congress.
Arif Aqueel was born in Bhopal on January 14, 1952. He began his political career as a student leader in 1972, becoming the president of Saifia College Students’ Union in 1977. That same year, he was elected vice president of Madhya Pradesh NSUI.
He first contested the assembly elections in 1990, defeating senior Congress leader and former minister Rasool Ahmed Siddiqui. Aqueel won his first MLA election as an independent candidate. In 1993, he contested under Janata Dal but lost narrowly to Ramesh Sharma of the BJP. He later held several key positions, including membership in Madhya Pradesh Waqf Board, Bar Council, and chairmanship of Nagrik Sahakari Bank.
Rejoining the Congress in 1996, Aqueel won the 1998 assembly election, defeating his old rival Ramesh Sharma. He served in various cabinet positions from 1998 to 2003 under Congress Chief Minister Digvijay Singh, in Ministries of Minority Welfare, Bhopal Gas Relief, and Backward Classes. He also chaired Madhya Pradesh Hajj Committee.
Aqueel continued his political journey with multiple electoral victories and significant roles within the Congress party, including vice president of Madhya Pradesh Congress Committee and a member of Congress Election Committee.
Politicians across party lines, including CM Mohan Yadav, former Congress CMs Kamal Nath and Digvijay Singh, and MPCC Chief Jitu Patwari, have expressed their grief over Aqueel’s demise.
