M. K. Faizi: Politician

M. K. Faizi is an Indian politician and the National President of the Social Democratic Party of India (SDPI), a political organization committed to promoting social justice, equality, and the rights of marginalized communities. Faizi’s leadership has played a crucial role in shaping the party’s political strategy, particularly its focus on empowering Muslims, Dalits, and other underprivileged groups in India.

Born in Kerala, Faizi was actively involved in social and political movements from a young age. His early experiences with grassroots activism helped shape his understanding of the challenges faced by marginalized communities in the country. Before joining SDPI, Faizi was associated with various social organizations advocating for justice and human rights, particularly focusing on issues like communal harmony, economic disparity, and political representation of minorities.

As the National President of SDPI, Faizi has been a vocal advocate for a secular and inclusive India, consistently speaking out against policies and practices that marginalize minorities. Under his leadership, the SDPI has made significant strides in raising awareness about issues such as state-sponsored violence, discrimination, and the erosion of civil liberties. The party has also positioned itself as a defender of constitutional rights, often taking strong stances against divisive and communal politics.

Faizi’s leadership is characterized by his emphasis on grassroots mobilization and community engagement. He has played a pivotal role in expanding the SDPI’s influence across several Indian states, particularly in southern India, where the party has contested elections and built a loyal following.

Despite facing political and legal challenges, M. K. Faizi remains committed to his vision of an egalitarian society where every citizen, regardless of caste, religion, or economic status, has equal access to opportunities and justice. His work continues to inspire many within the social justice and political spheres in India.

Muhammad Adeeb: Politician, Activist

Mohammad Adeeb (born in 1945) is a distinguished Indian politician, former Rajya Sabha member, and prominent social activist, widely known for his advocacy of minority rights and communal harmony. Adeeb's career in public service has been marked by his unwavering commitment to addressing the socio-political challenges faced by marginalized communities in India, especially Muslims. He is currently the head of the Indian Muslims for Human Rights (IMHR), an organization dedicated to promoting justice, equality, and human rights for Muslims in India.

Born and raised in Uttar Pradesh, Adeeb completed his education in political science and developed a deep interest in issues of social justice and minority welfare. His political journey began with student activism, and over time, he became a key figure in advocating for minority rights on a national platform. Adeeb was elected to the Rajya Sabha in 2008 as an independent member, representing Uttar Pradesh, where he served a full six-year term until 2014.

During his tenure in the Rajya Sabha, Adeeb was a vocal advocate for communal harmony, constitutional rights, and inclusive governance. He consistently raised issues related to the socio-economic upliftment of marginalized communities, the protection of minority rights, and the need for secularism in Indian politics. Adeeb played a significant role in bridging gaps between religious and political groups, often calling for peaceful dialogue and national unity.

As the head of IMHR, Mohammad Adeeb has focused on amplifying the voices of Indian Muslims in national and international forums, highlighting issues such as religious intolerance, discrimination, and the erosion of civil liberties. IMHR under his leadership has actively engaged in promoting human rights, interfaith dialogue, and legal support for those facing injustices. His work has earned him respect across political and social spectrums for his efforts to uphold the Indian Constitution’s values of justice, equality, and fraternity.

Omar Abdullah: Politician

Omar Abdullah, born on March 10, 1970, is an influential Indian politician currently serving as the chief minister of the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir. He was previously the chief minister of the state from 2009 to 2014 and has been the vice president of the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference since 2009. Abdullah began his political career in 1998 when he became the youngest member of the Lok Sabha, representing Srinagar until 2009 and also served as the Union Minister of State for External Affairs under Atal Bihari Vajpayee's NDA government.

The son of former chief minister Farooq Abdullah and grandson of Sheikh Abdullah, Omar continued a family legacy in politics. He notably became the 11th chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir on January 5, 2009, leading a coalition government. However, he faced political challenges, including the defeat of his party in the 2002 elections, though they returned to power in 2008. His government aimed to address issues stemming from insurgency and violence in the region.

In 2019, Abdullah was detained in connection with the revocation of Article 370, which stripped Jammu and Kashmir of its semi-autonomous status, a move he vehemently opposed. Abdullah was released from detention in March 2020. Following his return to politics, he participated in the 2024 elections, where his party, in alliance with the INDIA bloc, secured enough seats for him to be sworn in again as chief minister on October 16, 2024.

Personal life details include his early education in Kashmir and England. Born to a nurse and a politician, Abdullah briefly worked in the private sector before entering politics. He has since taken active roles in various committees and retained significant influence within his party and the region’s political landscape.

P.V. Abdul Wahab: Politician, Philanthropist

P.V. Abdul Wahab (born 1950) an accomplished entrepreneur and seasoned politician, is a Member of Parliament in the Rajya Sabha, representing Kerala. A prominent leader of the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), he also serves as the party’s National Treasurer, playing a vital role in strengthening its financial and organizational framework.

Born on July 1, 1951, in Malappuram, Kerala, Abdul Wahab grew up in a family with strong values of education and community service. He embarked on his entrepreneurial journey in the Gulf, establishing successful ventures in real estate, manufacturing, and hospitality. His business acumen earned him respect as a visionary leader in both India and the Middle East.

Abdul Wahab’s foray into politics was marked by his unwavering commitment to socio-economic development and communal harmony. As a Rajya Sabha MP, he has been vocal on issues concerning minority rights, education, and the upliftment of marginalized communities. His insightful contributions during parliamentary debates reflect his deep understanding of India's socio-political landscape and his dedication to fostering inclusive growth.

Apart from his political and business pursuits, Abdul Wahab is a noted philanthropist. Through various charitable initiatives, he has contributed significantly to healthcare, education, and disaster relief efforts in Kerala and beyond. His efforts in promoting quality education for underprivileged children and advancing skill development programs are widely recognized.

A strong advocate for communal harmony and democratic values, P.V. Abdul Wahab embodies the ethos of the Indian Union Muslim League, which emphasizes secularism and justice. With his blend of political acumen, social responsibility, and business expertise, he continues to inspire trust and respect among his constituents and colleagues, making him a distinguished figure in Indian public life.

Rakibul Hussain: Politician

Rakibul Hussain (born in 1964) is a prominent Indian politician and a seasoned leader with a dynamic political career spanning decades. Currently serving as the Member of Parliament in the Lok Sabha from Dhubri, Assam, his victory in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, defeating AIUDF chief Maulana Badruddin Ajmal by a staggering margin of 10,12,476 votes, stands as a testament to his widespread appeal and political acumen.

A postgraduate in Political Science from Aligarh Muslim University, Hussain's academic foundation has greatly shaped his political perspective. He began his political journey with the Indian National Congress, representing the Samaguri constituency in the Assam Legislative Assembly since 2001. His consistent electoral success highlights his deep connection with his constituents.

Hussain held several significant ministerial portfolios in the Tarun Gogoi-led government in Assam, showcasing his versatility. Between 2002 and 2016, he served as Minister of State and later as Cabinet Minister for Home, Political Affairs, Forest and Environment, Panchayat and Rural Development, Tourism, Information and Public Relations, and other key departments. His contributions during this period were pivotal in driving development initiatives, enhancing environmental policies, and improving rural governance.

From 2021 to 2024, Hussain served as the Deputy Leader of the Opposition in the Assam Legislative Assembly, where he played a critical role in articulating the opposition's stand on crucial state issues.

Beyond politics, Hussain has been actively involved in sports administration. He served as General Secretary of the Assam Olympic Association and became the President of the All India Carrom Federation in 2015, promoting sports development in the region.

Rakibul Hussain's political journey is marked by dedication, effective governance, and a commitment to public service, making him a key figure in Assam's political landscape.

Salman Khurshid Alam Khan (politician)

Salman Khurshid Alam Khan (born 1 January 1953) is an Indian politician, senior advocate, author, and law teacher. A member of the Indian National Congress, he served as the Cabinet Minister for External Affairs. Khurshid has represented Farrukhabad in the Lok Sabha, first from 1991–1996 and later in 2009. His political career began in 1981 as an Officer on Special Duty in the Prime Minister’s Office under Indira Gandhi. He later held roles as Deputy Minister of Commerce and Minister of State for External Affairs.

Born to Khurshed Alam Khan, a former Union Minister, and the grandson of Zakir Husain, India’s third President, Khurshid has Pathan ancestry linked to the Afridi and Kheshgi tribes. He was educated at St. Xavier’s High School, Delhi Public School, and St. Stephen’s College, Delhi. He earned his M.A. and Bachelor of Civil Law from St. Edmund Hall, Oxford, and taught law at Trinity College, Oxford.

Khurshid has held significant political roles, including President of the Uttar Pradesh Congress Committee and Delhi Public School Society. He was instrumental in managing portfolios for Minority Affairs, Corporate Affairs, and Law and Justice during his tenure as a Union Minister. Despite losing elections in 2014 and 2019, his political influence remains notable.

As a writer, Khurshid has authored the play Sons of Babur and books like Sunrise over Ayodhya, which sparked controversy for its critique of Hindutva, leading to his house being vandalized. He has also edited The Contemporary Conservative: Selected Writings of Dhiren Bhagat.

Khurshid and his wife Louise run the Zakir Hussain Memorial Trust, which faced allegations of financial mismanagement in 2012. Although they denied the charges, the controversy, dubbed "Operation Dhritrashtra," led to extensive investigations and public scrutiny. Despite challenges, Khurshid continues to be a prominent voice in Indian politics and intellectual circles.