The visionary leader played a crucial role in the country’s independence movement as well as in modernising indigenous medical systems
NEW DELHI — Renowned Gandhian Tej Lal Bharti has urged the Centre to confer Bharat Ratna, the country’s highest civilian award, on eminent freedom fighter and Unani medical pioneer Masih-ul-Mulk Hakim Ajmal Khan.
The appeal was made at a meeting of Hakim Ajmal Khan Forum for Peace and Communal Harmony here on Thursday. It was chaired by Bharti who is also the national president of the forum.
The meeting adopted a unanimous resolution calling for honouring the visionary leader who played a crucial role in the country’s independence movement as well as in modernising indigenous medical systems.
Hakim Ajmal Khan (1868–1927) was among the foremost leaders of his era — a physician, educationist, and nationalist who dedicated his life to public service. Known as the “Messiah of the Nation”, he was instrumental in the development of Unani medicine and was one of the founders of Jamia Millia Islamia in 1920, which emerged as a centre for education during the freedom struggle. He also established Tibbia College in Delhi, which combined the study of Unani and modern medicine, creating India’s first integrated hospital and research centre which can be termed as India’s first All India Institute of Medical Sciences.
Apart from his contribution to health and education, Ajmal Khan was an active political figure. He presided over the Indian National Congress session in 1921, served as the president of the All India Khilafat Committee, and was associated with Mahatma Gandhi and other leaders in various movements. His humanitarian vision extended beyond politics; he championed communal harmony, women’s education, and healthcare for the poor.
During the meeting, Tej Lal Bharti emphasised that, “The present government must take the initiative to confer the Bharat Ratna on Hakim Ajmal Khan, as a mark of gratitude for his unparalleled contributions. Bachchon Ka Ghar, one of his most significant legacies, continues to serve as a shelter for orphans and the underprivileged. Its preservation and upkeep is the collective responsibility of the citizens of Delhi, especially those in the walled city.” He urged the authorities to ensure that educational institutions associated with this historic facility are saved from neglect.
The meeting also recognised the efforts of Hakim Ajmal Khan’s great-grandson, Masroor Ahmad Khan, who was appointed as the Patron-in-Chief of the forum. Other office-bearers elected included Dr Lal Bahadur, Hakim SP Bhatnagar, and Dr Shakeel Ahmad as Vice Presidents, while Dr Syed Ahmad Khan was chosen as General Secretary.
The Executive Committee will include former Lok Sabha MP from Khalilabad, Lal Mani Prasad, Dr Sabahatullah Amrohi, Dr Wajahat Ali, Tahseen Ali Asarvi, Israr Ahmad Ujaini, Babulal Bharti, Anil Kumar, Aleem Ansari, Hakim Aftab Alam, and Mohammad Imran Kanouji.
