Arif Aqueel: Sher-e-Bhopal and His Enduring Legacy

Former Congress MLA Arif Aqueel, fondly called as Sher-e-Bhopal, passed away early Monday morning on July 29 after a prolonged illness. Aqueel, who served six terms as the representative of Bhopal's North Assembly seat, was a significant figure in the Congress party, having been appointed a minister twice. His portfolios included Minority Welfare, Jail, and Food Department. Aqueel's political journey began in 1990 when he was first elected as an MLA. Due to his declining health, Aqueel secured a ticket for his son, Atif Aqeel, to run for the Bhopal North seat in 2023. Atif is now the current MLA.

Former Congress MLA was laid to rest at Bada Bagh on Monday. Large number of people attended his last rites. Congress leaders, workers and citizens paid their glowing tributes to Aqueel. 

A 40-Year Bond Remembered by Digvijaya Singh

Senior Congress leader and former Chief Minister Digvijaya Singh expressed deep sorrow over Aqueel's passing. Singh shared his grief on social media, highlighting their nearly four-decade-long friendship. From their days in the Youth Congress to the present, Singh described Aqueel as both a friend and brother. He offered prayers for Aqueel, hoping Allah would grant him a place in heaven.

Health Struggles and Family Legacy

Aqueel had been battling heart problems since the previous year. His condition worsened in early 2023 when doctors discovered blockages in his heart. He underwent heart surgery at Medanta Hospital in Gurugram. Following the surgery, Aqueel ensured his political legacy would continue by supporting his son's candidacy. Atif Aqueel successfully won the North seat in the 2023 assembly elections. Arif Aqueel was admitted to a hospital in Bhopal Sunday evening, following complaints of pain, according to his son.

Dominance in Bhopal North

Arif Aqeel's tenure as the MLA from Bhopal North is notable for its longevity and the unwavering support he garnered. He held the seat for six consecutive terms, earning the affectionate moniker Sher-e-Bhopal. Despite numerous efforts by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), they were unable to unseat him for over two decades. His influence and popularity within the constituency were unmatched.

Humanitarian Efforts Post-Gas Tragedy

Aqueel's humanitarian contributions significantly bolstered his public image. In the aftermath of the 1984 Union Carbide gas tragedy in Bhopal, Aqueel played a crucial role in rehabilitating the affected families. He established a colony at a safe distance from the Union Carbide factory, which the residents named Arif Nagar. This settlement provided a refuge for the victims and their families. As a minister in DigvijayaSingh's government, Aqueel was instrumental in securing compensation for the gas tragedy victims.

Arif Aqueel's legacy is marked by his steadfast dedication to his constituents, his resilience in the face of political challenges, and his compassionate response to one of India's worst industrial disasters. His contributions to Bhopal and the Congress party will be remembered for years to come.

Started his political career as a student leader

Arif Aqueel started his political career as an activist student leader in 1972. He was appointed President of Saifia College Student Committee in 1977, and in the same year he was elected as Vice President of Youth Congress and NSUI (National Student Union of India) of Madhya Pradesh.

He won his first MLA election, as an independent MLA, in the 9th assembly election by defeating senior Congress leader and ex-Minister Rasool Ahmad Siddiqui in 1990.

For almost three decades, politics in Old Bhopal has centred around one man—Arif Aqueel. It has happened several times that BJP won all the seats in Bhopal, except Arif Aqueel's constituency—Bhopal North & saved Congress’ prestige in the State capital.

He was married to Saira Aqueel. He has one daughter and three sons; (eldest to youngest), Erum Aqueel, Majid Aqueel, Atif Aqueel and Abid Aqueel. Atif Aqueel is one of the fastest-rising young politicians of Bhopal.

His daughter is married to Khalid Masoud, a General Manager employed at UPS (United Parcel Service inc.) in Saudi Arabia.