Shafiqur Rahman Barq, a prominent Samajwadi Party MP, passed away at 94. He was known for his association with Chaudhary Charan Singh, his advocacy for Muslim rights, and his significant electoral victories, winning five Lok Sabha elections. Barq’s legacy includes his dedication to parliamentary proceedings, recognized by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and his commitment to social justice in Indian politics.

3 min read 2024-02-27

Shafiqur Rahman Barq

A Member of Parliament from the Samajwadi Party, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 94. He breathed his last at a private hospital in Moradabad. It was reported that he had been unwell for some time, suffering from physical weakness and loose motion, which led to his admission to the hospital.

Doctors had diagnosed him with a kidney infection. Shafiq Rahman was born on July 11, 1930. He began his political career alongside Chaudhary Charan Singh and was also associated with the Babri Masjid Action Committee, known for amplifying the voices of Muslims across the country and maintaining an honest image.

During the formation of the Samajwadi Party, he worked alongside Mulayam Singh Yadav and was referred to as one of the founding members of the party. Over the years, Shafiq Rahman Barq had won the Lok Sabha elections from Sambhal constituency five times. He secured victories for the Samajwadi Party from the Moradabad Lok Sabha seat in 1996, 1998, and 2004. After that, he successfully contested on the Bahujan Samaj Party’s ticket from the Sambhal Lok Sabha seat in 2009.

However, in 1999 and 2014, he narrowly lost the Moradabad seat by a margin of just 5,174 votes. Additionally, Shafiq Rahman Barq had been elected as a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) four times from the Sambhal constituency and served as a cabinet minister in the Uttar Pradesh government once. He was an MLA from 1974 to 1977, from 1977 to 1980, from 1985 to 1989, and then from 1991. In the 2022 assembly elections, his grandson won the Muradabad seat.

Shafiq Rahman Barq had put all his efforts into ensuring his grandson’s victory from the Kundarki seat. He was praised by Prime Minister Narendra Modi once. During the new Lok Sabha session of 2023, PM Modi appreciated Barq’s dedication to the House, mentioning that despite being 93 years old, Dr. Shafiq Rahman Barq was still actively participating in the proceedings of the House, displaying unwavering commitment to its functioning.

Shafiqur Rahman Barq’s political journey is a testament to his unwavering dedication to serving the people and advocating for their rights. His contributions to the Samajwadi Party and the broader political landscape of India have left an indelible mark. As we reflect on his life and legacy, let us remember his commitment to social justice, inclusivity, and democratic values.

The passing of Shafiqur Rahman Barq marks the end of an era in Indian politics. His absence will be deeply felt by his constituents, colleagues, and admirers across the country. However, his contributions will continue to inspire future generations of leaders to work tirelessly for the betterment of society and the advancement of democratic ideals. May his soul rest in peace