Mukhtar Ansari, a notorious gangster-turned-politician, passed away at the age of 60 in Uttar Pradesh's Banda after suffering a cardiac arrest. Ansari, who was lodged in Banda Jail, complained of abdominal pain earlier in the day, following which his health rapidly deteriorated.
The politician's condition worsened after he broke his fast observed during the holy month of Ramzan. Medical professionals rushed to the jail premises, where Ansari was initially being treated. Subsequently, he was transferred to Banda Medical Hospital, where he succumbed to his condition.
Mukhtar Ansari's journey was marked by a tumultuous mix of crime and politics. Beginning his career in the world of crime during the 1980s, Ansari aligned himself with various criminal gangs before carving out his own niche in Uttar Pradesh's underworld. He engaged in fierce rivalries and violent confrontations, establishing himself as a notable figure in the criminal landscape of the region.
Transitioning into politics, Ansari utilized his influence to secure electoral victories as a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) multiple times, representing the Mau constituency. However, his political career was mired in controversy, with allegations of criminal involvement overshadowing his public persona.
Throughout his political tenure, Ansari faced a plethora of legal challenges, being embroiled in numerous criminal cases ranging from murder to extortion. In April 2023, he was convicted and sentenced to 10 years in prison for the murder of BJP MLA Krishnanand Rai. Additionally, in March 2024, he received a life sentence in connection with a fake arm license case.
Despite his criminal background, Mukhtar Ansari hailed from a notable family lineage, being the grandson of Mukhtar Ahmed Ansari, a prominent figure in India's independence movement and an early President of the Indian National Congress. This juxtaposition between his family's legacy and his own criminal and political endeavors exemplified the complexities of his life and legacy.
