By Syed Zubair Ahmad
The massive turnout of people during Mukhtar Ansari’s funeral serves as a powerful testament to his status as a beloved leader rather than a mere mafia figure turned politician. Contrary to the media’s portrayal of him as a mafia don, not a single individual interviewed by television anchors or You Tubers endorsed this narrative. Instead, the overwhelming sentiment among the gathered crowds was one of reverence and respect for Mukhtar Ansari as a Messiah of the masses. In fact his fight for the oppressed and deprived and his confrontations with powerful mafias led to Mukhtar Ansari being labeled as a mafia figure by the establishment.
Mukhtar Ansari was born into a prestigious family in Ghazipur, Uttar Pradesh, with a legacy deeply rooted in public service and activism His paternal grandfather, Mukhtar Ahmed Ansari, a notable freedom fighter, held the presidency of the Indian National Congress for approximately two years before Independence. Meanwhile, his maternal grandfather, Brigadier Mohammad Usman, was a distinguished war hero honored with the Maha Vir Chakra. Mukhtar Ansari’s family lineage boasts a legacy of twelve freedom fighters, highlighting their deep-rooted commitment to India’s struggle for independence.
Mukhtar Ansari’s impressive record as a five-time Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA), coupled with his ability to contest and win elections from jail on three occasions, further solidifies his standing as a leader deeply connected to the people he represented. This electoral success from a constrained environment underscores his popularity and the unwavering support he enjoyed from his constituents.
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One of the defining characteristics of Mukhtar Ansari’s leadership was his inclusivity and generosity. It is widely acknowledged that he welcomed everyone, regardless of their caste or creed, with open arms. His door was always open for everyone and no one left empty-handed after seeking his assistance or support. This ethos of inclusivity and compassionate service endeared him to a wide spectrum of society, transcending traditional divides and fostering a sense of unity and solidarity among his followers.
The narrative of Mukhtar Ansari as a Mafia don was largely a construct propagated by sensationalized media coverage and political opponents. However, the reality witnessed by those who knew him closely and by the masses who mourned his passing paints a vastly different picture—a picture of a leader who dedicated his life to serving the people, addressing their needs, and championing their causes.
Mukhtar Ansari has been a prominent figure in Uttar Pradesh politics. However, beyond the sensational headlines and legal battles, there is a narrative that portrays Mukhtar Ansari not as a mafia don but as a messiah for many marginalized communities. This report delves into his life, achievements, and the complexities surrounding his legacy.
His entry into politics came in 1996 when he contested parliamentary elections on a Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) ticket. Although unsuccessful in this attempt, he later found success in assembly elections from the Mau Sadar constituency, winning multiple terms despite facing legal challenges and imprisonment. His ability to garner support across religious and social divides highlighted his appeal as a grassroots leader.
Contrary to the stereotypical image of a mafia figure, Mukhtar Ansari was actively involved in social and community welfare initiatives. He championed causes for the underprivileged, advocated for education and healthcare reforms, and worked towards empowering marginalized groups, including Dalits and minorities. His efforts in providing employment opportunities and supporting local development projects earned him respect and admiration from many quarters.
One of Mukhtar Ansari’s enduring legacies is his reputation as a “messiah for the poor.” His interventions in addressing socio-economic disparities, ensuring access to basic amenities, and standing up for the rights of the downtrodden endeared him to the masses, especially in regions where government services were lacking or inadequate. His supporters often viewed him as a voice for the voiceless, challenging entrenched power structures and advocating for social justice.
Despite his contributions and popular support, Mukhtar Ansari’s political journey was marred by controversies and legal battles. Accusations of criminal activities, including involvement in organized crime and violence, cast a shadow over his public image. These allegations led to legal proceedings, arrests, and periods of incarceration, fueling debates about his true character and motivations.
Critics labeled him as a mafia don, emphasizing his alleged connections to criminal elements . However, supporters and sympathizers countered these narratives, citing political vendettas, media sensationalism, and the complex realities of Uttar Pradesh’s political landscape as factors contributing to the challenges faced by Mukhtar Ansari.
Ansari faced over 65 criminal cases, primarily related to charges such as murder, extortion, and anti-social activities, spread across various districts of Uttar Pradesh and Delhi. Interestingly , twenty-five of these cases were filed while he was in prison.
One of the prominent cases against Mukhtar Ansari was the murder of BJP MLA Krishnanand Rai and six others in the Bhawarkol area of Ghazipur district in November 2005. Mukhtar Ansari, along with his brother Afzal and five others, was booked in connection with this incident.
Following the High Court’s directive, the case was investigated by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). In 2019, a special CBI court in Delhi acquitted Afzal, Mukhtar Ansari, and five others in the murder case. Rai’s son subsequently filed an appeal against the acquittal, which is currently pending in the Delhi High Court.
Regardless of the controversies surrounding him, Mukhtar Ansari left a lasting impact on Uttar Pradesh’s political and social landscape. His ability to mobilize support, especially from marginalized communities, challenged established political hierarchies and paved the way for greater inclusivity in governance. His emphasis on grassroots activism, community engagement, and socio-economic empowerment resonated with many who felt marginalized or neglected by mainstream politics.
The overwhelming turnout and sentiments expressed during Mukhtar Ansari’s funeral underscore his legacy as a Messiah of the masses, a leader who earned the genuine affection and respect of the people he served. Despite the controversies and criticisms that surrounded him, his impact on the lives of ordinary citizens and his enduring popularity among diverse communities remain undeniable.