Syed Imtiaz Jillani: Journey from Journalism to Politics and Ramadan, Social Service and Muslim Politics.

In the country's current politics, there are several faces who have stepped into the field of public service from the responsible profession of journalism and established their own identity. One such prominent name is Syed Imtiaz Jaleel, who was not only an experienced journalist but also gained recognition across the country due to his active presence in the field of politics. He is one of the key leaders of the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) and is known as a strong voice in the politics of Aurangabad (now Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar).

Imtiaz Jaleel began his professional life with journalism. He served in the field of journalism for about 23 years. During this time, he was associated with the daily Lokmat for 11 years and then worked as a journalist at NDTV for 12 years. After gaining extensive experience in the field of journalism, he entered active politics in 2014 and won the Maharashtra Assembly elections from the central constituency of Aurangabad as an AIMIM candidate, reaching the assembly. Thus, he was a member of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly from 2014 to 2019.

His popularity in politics became more pronounced when, under his leadership, AIMIM participated in the Aurangabad Municipal Corporation elections for the first time in 2015 and surprisingly won 25 seats, making a strong presence felt. Later, in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, he contested from the Aurangabad parliamentary constituency in alliance with the Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi and defeated senior Shiv Sena leader Chandrakant Khaire to become a Member of Parliament.

As a public representative, Imtiaz Jaleel has raised his voice on several social issues. Considering his performance, in 2016, a social organization, New Dia Dnyan Prasarak Mandal, also awarded him the "Best MLA" award. Additionally, the British High Commission had invited him on a study tour for young politicians, where Imtiaz Jaleel was one of the 12 selected politicians and the only representative from Maharashtra.

Regarding Ramadan, he said, "Ramadan is a month when I significantly reduce my political engagements. Compared to regular days, I spend most of my time in worship during this month. I try to recite the Holy Quran regularly. I read the Quran even when I go to the office and try to complete the recitation at home every day. Because Ramadan is not just a month of worship, but it's also an excellent opportunity to discipline oneself." Therefore, he tries to spend more time with his family during this month.

Childhood Memories of Eid and Memorable Moments

When talking about Ramadan and Eid memories, Imtiaz Jaleel's tone also becomes emotional. He shares that Eid day was a day of special joy for him in his childhood. "We were three brothers. After offering Eid prayers, we would go straight to our grandmother's house. Our grandmother would give us ten rupees as Eidi. Since we had an older brother, he would get four rupees, and we two younger ones would get three rupees each. We always complained that our older brother was getting one rupee more."

He smiles and says that the value and love of those ten rupees at that time are not felt even with lakhs of rupees today.

He also mentioned his father's hospitality. According to him, on Eid day, people from different religions and classes would come to their home. "My father's friends included doctors, lawyers, and people from various professions. When we would return home after offering prayers, we would see that guests were already present, waiting to have sewaiyan. This environment taught us tolerance and brotherhood from childhood."

Experience of Transition from Journalism to Politics

Imtiaz Jaleel says that the fundamental difference between the two fields is the power to make choices and have an impact. "In journalism, you highlight issues, become the voice of the people, and show the mirror to the government. But in democracy, real decisions are made within the legislative bodies. If your voice is not present there, then solving problems becomes difficult." This realization prompted him to enter politics.

In the current era, no matter how much you write in newspapers or show on TV, unless you have representation in Parliament and the Assembly, finding a permanent solution to problems is challenging.

On the political state of the Muslim community, Imtiaz Jaleel emphasizes that Muslims need to understand the importance of their political power. "In democracy, decisions are made through political power. If a class does not have its political identity and strong representation, its issues will not be taken seriously. Muslims must also realize that without political awareness and unity, progress is impossible."

He regretfully states that some people turn elections into a business. "Unfortunately, some people become candidates in every election just to get financial benefits from any party. Their goal is not to win but to divide votes. This weakens Muslim leadership."

Imtiaz Jaleel acknowledges that a new awareness is emerging among Muslim youth, and they are ready to participate in politics and social services.

According to Imtiaz Jaleel, "I recently took interviews of party candidates for the corporation election in Mumbai. There were a large number of educated youth, including girls, who want to do something for society. They just need a platform."

He says that the effort of the Majlis is to bring forward new and capable people. "We introduced new faces in the recent elections. This is a positive change and will instill confidence among Muslim youth."

Considering education as the foundation for the development of Muslims, Imtiaz Jaleel says that in today's era, no nation can progress without education.

He stated, "Today's era is the era of knowledge and technology. If young people acquire education, they will not only improve their lives but also play a crucial role in the development of society."

According to him, educational awareness is increasing among Muslims, and a large number of youths are turning towards higher education. However, he also emphasizes that moral education is necessary along with education.

The Message of Ramadan

In the conversation, Imtiaz Jaleel mentioned the spiritual message of Ramadan, saying that this month teaches humans patience, tolerance, and helping others. Actually, Ramadan reminds us that humanity, compassion, and service to humanity are also essential parts of worship. If we incorporate these values into our lives, society can certainly become better. May Allah bless everyone with the blessings of Ramadan and may peace, unity, and brotherhood prevail in the country.

Thus, the journey of Syed Imtiaz Jaleel's life is not only an interesting story from journalism to politics, but it is also an example that if one has determination and a clear purpose, they can play a significant role in any field.