Jalna, Mar 22 (PTI) All India Muslim OBC Organisation national president Shabbir Ahmed Ansari passed away in Maharashtra’s Jalna city on Sunday after a prolonged illness, family sources said.
He was 79.
The social activist was regarded as a towering figure in the Other Backward Classes (OBC) movement and devoted over four decades to the cause of social justice and welfare of the backward communities.
As president of the All India Muslim OBC Organisation, he played a key role in mobilising grassroots support across Maharashtra and other parts of the country on issues related to reservation and equal rights.
Known for his ability to connect with people at the grassroots level, Ansari effectively communicated complex socio-political issues in simple terms, earning him widespread respect.
He had also held several meetings at the national level with noted personalities, including veteran actor late Dilip Kumar, to raise awareness about OBC rights, a relative said.
Ansari played an important role in advocating for the implementation of the Mandal Commission recommendations and worked towards the inclusion of backward sections within the Muslim community under the OBC category.
During his speech at an OBC gathering in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar on the occasion of Mandal Day last year, he urged the younger generation to continue the struggle for equality and justice.
A resident of Nutan Vasahat in old Jalna, Ansari is survived by his wife, three sons and six daughters. PTI COR GK
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