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The Life and Legacy of Mukhtar Ansari: From Gangster to Politician

Kalyani Jha
29 Mar, 2024

On March 28, Mukhtar Ansari, a notorious gangster-turned-politician, passed away in Banda, Uttar Pradesh, due to a cardiac arrest. Ansari’s life was a complex blend of criminal allegations, political prominence, and familial connections that left a lasting impact on Uttar Pradesh’s political landscape.

Criminal Allegations and Convictions:

Mukhtar Ansari, aged 60, had a staggering 63 criminal cases against him, ranging from murder to extortion, which made him one of Uttar Pradesh’s feared ‘bahubalis.’ While acquitted in most cases, he faced convictions in significant crimes. Notably, he received a 10-year sentence for the 2005 murder of BJP MLA Krishnanand Rai, a crime that shocked the state due to its brutality and the use of AK-47 rifles.

Political Journey:

Despite his criminal past, Mukhtar Ansari wielded significant political influence. He represented the Mau (Sadar) assembly seat from 1997 to 2022, winning elections even while incarcerated. His family, including brother Afzal Ansari, held political positions, showcasing their clout in Uttar Pradesh politics.

Family Legacy:

The Ansari family had a multifaceted legacy. Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed Ansari, Mukhtar’s grandfather, was a freedom fighter and prominent Congress leader. However, alongside these illustrious figures, Mukhtar’s family also had individuals with criminal backgrounds, including his brother Afzal Ansari and son Abbas Ansari, both involved in politics despite criminal convictions.

Political-Criminal Nexus:

Mukhtar Ansari’s rise in the nexus of politics and crime stemmed from the volatile landscape of Uttar Pradesh in the 1990s. His involvement in various illicit activities, coupled with his political maneuvers, solidified his presence in the Purvanchal region.

Impact and Controversies:

Mukhtar Ansari’s death reignited discussions on criminalization in politics, particularly in Uttar Pradesh, where numerous lawmakers have criminal cases against them. Despite his criminal history, Mukhtar’s political career and electoral successes reflected the complex realities of voter choices in the state.

Legacy and Reflections:

Mukhtar Ansari’s life symbolizes the intricate interplay between power, crime, and politics in Uttar Pradesh. His journey, from a gangster to a legislator, remains a contentious chapter in the state’s political narrative, highlighting broader issues of governance, law enforcement, and electoral dynamics.