Former state minister who died on Tuesday at 86 will be remembered for his contributions to Bihar’s politics and social work
Mohammad Alamullah | Clarion India
NEW DELHI – Dr Khalid Anwar Ansari, former Bihar state minister and a prominent political figure, passed away in Patna on Tuesday at the age of 86. He was the son of the renowned freedom fighter Abdul Qayyum Ansari, who was celebrated as a freedom fighter and was a key figure in India’s struggle for independence.
Dr Ansari’s demise has led to an outpouring of grief across the state, with Chief Minister Nitish Kumar announcing full state honours for his last rites.
Born in Dehri-on-Sone, Bihar, Dr Ansari received his early education at St. Xavier’s School in Patna and later attended Jamia Millia Islamia in New Delhi. He graduated from Patna College and embarked on a political career that saw him serve as an MLA for Dehri Assembly constituency twice, between 1973-1977 and 1985-1990. He also held the position of minister of transport and dairy development in the Congress government.
Dr Ansari was a founding member of the Samata Party alongside Nitish Kumar and veteran leader George Fernandes. In 2000, he was nominated to the Bihar Legislative Council by Lalu Prasad Yadav, marking a significant milestone in his political journey.
Beyond his political career, Dr Ansari was deeply involved in social work. He served as the President of the Bihar State Momin Conference, a member of the Governing Body of the All India Momin Youth and Student Federation, and held leadership roles in several other organisations, including the Bihar State Banker Association and the All India Momin Fund. His contributions to education were also notable, particularly his involvement with Jawaharlal Nehru College in Dehri-on-Sone.
Prominent political leaders, including Nitish Kumar, former chief ministers Lalu Prasad Yadav and Rabri Devi, Leader of Opposition Tejashwi Yadav, and Congress state President Akhilesh Prasad Singh, have expressed their condolences.
In a statement, Nitish Kumar said, “Dr Khalid Anwar Ansari’s passing is a great loss to Bihar. His contributions to both politics and society will be remembered for generations.”
Dr Ansari’s legacy as a dedicated public servant and social worker continues to inspire many. His commitment to the welfare of the people of Bihar and his efforts to uplift the minority community have left an indelible mark on the state’s history.