Imran Pratapgarhi, a Congress politician and poet, is facing legal action from the Gujarat Police over a controversial poem shared in a social media video. The Supreme Court recently criticized the Gujarat Police for their handling of the case. The Supreme Court remarked that after 75 years of independence, law enforcement must better understand freedom of speech and expression.
The case originated from a complaint about a video Imran Pratapgarhi posted after attending a wedding in Jamnagar. The video featured the poem “Ae khoon ke pyase baat suno,” which the police deemed objectionable. On January 3, the Gujarat Police registered an FIR against him under several sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
A Rapid Rise in Congress Ranks with Leadership of Imran Pratapgarhi
Imran Pratapgarhi’s political ascent has been swift and surprising. He currently serves as the chairperson of the All India Congress Committee (AICC) minority department and is a Rajya Sabha MP. At just 37 years old, he has earned a significant position within the party, despite hailing from a non-political family background.
His journey into politics began in 2018 when he met Rahul Gandhi. This meeting, originally scheduled for 20 minutes, extended to nearly two hours. They discussed a range of social and political issues, which impressed the Congress leadership.
By 2019, the party offered him a ticket to contest the Lok Sabha elections from Moradabad. Although he finished third, securing 4.62% of the vote share, his political career did not lose momentum. In June 2021, he was appointed as the head of the AICC minority department. The following year, he was elected to the Rajya Sabha from Maharashtra.
Imran Pratapgarhi: From a Humble Background to National Recognition
Imran Pratapgarhi was born in Shamsherganj Bazaar village in Uttar Pradesh’s Pratapgarh district. He grew up in a modest household with ten siblings. His father, Mohammad Iliyas Khan, practiced Unani medicine, while his mother, Sajida Khan, managed the home.
He completed his early education in Pratapgarh before earning a degree in Hindi literature from Allahabad University. He later pursued a post-graduate degree in the same field and obtained a journalism diploma in 2008. During his college years, he began writing poetry and performing at Kavi Sammelans (poetry gatherings) and Urdu Mushairas (poetry symposiums).
His evocative verses resonated with audiences across India and abroad. Through his poetry, he highlighted the struggles of marginalized communities and championed social harmony. His ability to blend simple language with powerful messages made his work widely accessible.
Poetry Rooted in Social Justice
A significant theme in Pratapgarhi’s poetry before his political career was the issue of lynching. He did more than just write about the problem—he actively supported families affected by such violence.
In 2017, he organized a blood donation camp at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar as a symbolic protest against lynchings. The event, named “Lahu bol raha hai” (Blood is speaking), collected 2,816 units of blood, drawing attention to the victims’ plight.
His poetry draws inspiration from legendary poets like Rahat Indori from India and Habib Jalib from Pakistan. His work emphasizes themes of peace, tolerance, and resistance against divisive forces.
A Popular Figure Within the Congress Party
Imran Pratapgarhi’s popularity extends beyond the poetry stage to the political arena. At the AICC headquarters in Delhi, long queues of supporters often gather outside his office. According to party activists, these crowds sometimes surpass those outside the offices of senior Congress leaders.
His speeches in Parliament reflect his poetic flair. He frequently weaves verses into his addresses, making his arguments both compelling and memorable.
Pratapgarhi acknowledges the transformative role of social media in his career. “Social media, Mushairas, and Kavi Sammelans made me who I am today,” he told The Indian Express. He emphasizes the accessibility of his poetry, describing it as simple and relatable to people from all walks of life.
Awards and Recognitions
In 2016, the Akhilesh Yadav-led Samajwadi Party government recognized Imran Pratapgarhi’s contributions to poetry and social work by awarding him the “Yash Bharti.” At the age of 29, he became one of the youngest recipients of this prestigious honor.
His influence continues to grow, both as a poet and as a politician. Despite legal challenges, he remains committed to advocating for social justice and the rights of marginalized communities.
The Ongoing Debate on Free Speech
The legal action against Imran Pratapgarhi raises important questions about freedom of speech in India. The Supreme Court’s intervention highlights the tension between law enforcement and constitutional rights. As the case unfolds, it will likely spark further debate about the limits of free expression and the responsibilities of public figures.
Imran Pratapgarhi’s journey from a small village to the national political stage reflects both his personal determination and the power of words to inspire change. Whether in verse or in Parliament, he continues to be a voice for those who are often unheard.
