Dr M Rahmatullah Senior Journalist

In India’s political and social landscape, there are only a few personalities who are celebrated for their profound knowledge, insightful thinking, and unwavering determination. Arif Mohammad Khan stands out as one such luminary who has consistently demonstrated that leadership is not merely about positions and power but a harmonious blend of ideas and principles.

The Journey from Kerala to Bihar

Arif Mohammad Khan completed his five-year tenure as the Governor of Kerala on September 5, 2024. However, his exemplary administrative skills and unparalleled acumen led the Central Government to retain him in Kerala for an extended period. Four months later, he has been appointed as the Governor of Bihar, a state known for its political complexities and sensitivity.
Bihar, with assembly elections scheduled eight months from now, presents a significant challenge and an opportunity for Khan’s expertise. The state’s political landscape, dominated by the complex equations of Muslim, Yadav, Dalit, and other backward classes, has always been a tough terrain for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Unlike Uttar Pradesh, where the BJP successfully fragmented the Muslim-Yadav vote to form a government, Bihar’s socio-political dynamics remain unfavorable for the party. In this context, Arif Mohammad Khan’s appointment reflects a strategic move by the BJP to explore new avenues of influence in the state.
A Distinguished Career
Born on November 18, 1951, in Bulandshahr, Uttar Pradesh, Arif Mohammad Khan earned a BA (Hons) degree from Aligarh Muslim University and an LLB from Lucknow University. During his student years, he served as the General Secretary (1972-73) and later as the President (1973-74) of the Aligarh Muslim University Students’ Union.
Khan’s political journey began at the young age of 26, when he was elected as a Member of the Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly in 1977. He later served in the Lok Sabha, representing Kanpur in the 7th Lok Sabha in 1980 and Bahraich in the 8th, 9th, and 12th Lok Sabha. As a Union Cabinet Minister, he handled the portfolios of Energy and Civil Aviation during 1989-90.
Achievements in Kerala
Appointed as the Governor of Kerala on September 6, 2019, Arif Mohammad Khan brought a transformative approach to the role. He often challenged the state’s left-leaning government within constitutional and legal frameworks, ensuring accountability and adherence to the law. His efforts significantly bolstered the BJP’s position in a state where it traditionally struggled. Notably, the BJP not only managed to win a parliamentary seat in Kerala but also saw a substantial increase in its vote share across various regions, largely due to Khan’s strategic and intellectual contributions.
Khan’s leadership posed significant challenges to prominent Congress leaders, such as Shashi Tharoor, who faced an unexpectedly tough contest in the last elections. The credit for the BJP’s improved performance in Kerala is often attributed to Khan’s proactive and visionary role.
Philosophy and Intellectual Depth
Arif Mohammad Khan is renowned for his vast knowledge spanning politics, society, literature, culture, religion, and law. His deep understanding of the Vedas, the Quran, the Indian Constitution, and the socio-political dynamics of India positions him as a thought leader. He has consistently advocated for the Muslim community to shed orthodox practices and embrace modern education and technology. Although his progressive ideas have faced resistance from certain sections of the Muslim community, they are gradually gaining acceptance among the educated elite.
The Shah Bano Case and Khan’s Principles
One of the defining moments in Khan’s career was his principled stance during the Shah Bano case. Disagreeing with the government’s decision to overturn the Supreme Court’s ruling on the matter of triple talaq, he resigned from Rajiv Gandhi’s cabinet. His argument was rooted in the belief that since triple talaq has no basis in the Quran or in most Muslim countries, there was no justification for its continuation in India. This episode highlighted Khan’s unwavering commitment to his principles, even at the cost of his political career.
Impact on the Muslim Community
Khan has persistently emphasized the need for the Muslim community to prioritize education and technological advancement. He believes that education is the key to overcoming superstitions and backwardness. Drawing parallels with Sir Syed Ahmad Khan, who championed modern education for Muslims during British rule, Khan’s efforts aim to uplift the community. Despite initial resistance from orthodox factions, his ideas are gradually finding resonance among the educated and progressive sections of the Muslim society.
A New Role in Bihar
Bihar is a politically charged and socially sensitive state where caste and religion heavily influence electoral outcomes. By appointing Arif Mohammad Khan as Governor, the BJP seems to signal its intent to engage more effectively with the Muslim community. In his constitutional role, Khan could play a pivotal part in shaping the political discourse and increasing the BJP’s acceptance among Muslims in Bihar.
His tenure as Governor comes at a critical time, with assembly elections looming. The BJP likely hopes that his intellectual and political acumen will help bridge gaps with the Muslim community and create a conducive environment for the party’s growth in the state.
Championing Education and Social Reform
Khan’s life and work underline the belief that education and social reform are the cornerstones of progress. He has consistently urged the Muslim community to adopt a progressive outlook and participate in the global race for technological and educational excellence. His vision is for the community to overcome traditionalist barriers and integrate with the rapidly changing world.
Comparing Roles in Kerala and Bihar
In Kerala, Khan successfully balanced his constitutional responsibilities with a strategy to improve the BJP’s foothold in the state. Bihar presents a similar, albeit more challenging, landscape. His primary objectives will include fulfilling his constitutional duties while simultaneously fostering political inclusivity and acceptance of the BJP within the Muslim community.
A Beacon of Inspiration
Arif Mohammad Khan’s life is a testament to the transformative power of courage, determination, and foresight. His ideas and actions inspire not only the Muslim community but the entire nation to embrace change and progress. His unique blend of scholarship, principles, and political acumen makes him an exceptional figure in Indian public life.
Arif Mohammad Khan’s appointment as the Governor of Bihar is not just significant for the state but for the nation as a whole. His wisdom, steadfastness, and political expertise have the potential to influence Bihar’s political and social framework positively. It remains to be seen how his tenure shapes the political dynamics of the state and contributes to the BJP’s broader strategy.
Arif Mohammad Khan’s life exemplifies the idea that with vision, commitment, and intellectual rigor, one can pave the way for meaningful change in society and governance. His journey serves as an enduring reminder that leadership is about fostering principles, advocating reform, and inspiring others to strive for a better future.