Freeindia > Biographies > Freedom Fighters > Rafi Ahmed Kidwai
Rafi Ahmed Kidwai
Born on 18th February 1894 in the little village of Masauli, barabanki, Uttar Pradesh, Shri Rafi Ahmed Kidwai rose to hold position of immense responsibility in the State and Cental Governments. The progress of 'Rafi Sahib',as he was affectionately called, was not a path of roses.
Hailing from a middle class Zamindar family that traced back to the retinue of Mohammad Ghazni, he was groomed and educated by his uncle Vilayat Ali. It was through him that the young Rafi Ahmed was exposed to the Congress and the Muslim League, and to various national leaders. Graduating in 1918, he had the law profession in mind but sucbed to Gandhiji's spell to join the Non-Cooperation Movement.There was no looking back. Jailed time and again for his nationalistic activities, he went from strength to strength.The initial stage of apprenticeship was served as Private Secretary to Motilal Nehru. Election to the Central Legislative Assembly in 1926 was the next step. Recognition for his political capability and maturity came with his appointment as Chief Whip of the Congress party in the Central Legislature.
After 1931 he came into his own, spearheading the Agrarian Movement, which was to remain a life-times commitment. As Secretary ofthe U.P Congress Committee he organised the no-rent campaign to protect Oudh peasantry against the economic depression of the 30s. Later, in the firstCabinet of U.P. as Minster for Land Revenue, he virtually structure the U.P.Tenancy Act, subsequently enacted, creating conditions for the abolition of the amindari system. The second General Election made him Home Minister of U.P.in 1946.
Independence brought Rafi Sahib to New Delhi as Minister for Communications. He distinguished himself by sponsoring such schemes as night air mail, own your telephone and weekly off for staff. Returning in 1952 he received accolade as the Minister for Food & Agriculture who fed the nation without food aid and external controls.
A simple, austere man, he was truly secular and open minded in his vision. He believed mass action and mass programme in the struggle against exploitation, be it social or economic. AT his death in 1954 he was found t have bequeathed few worldly possessions, but left behind an immense admiration for a man of courage and commitment. The Department of Posts is privileged to bring out a commemorative postage stamp in his honour.
Copyright © by FreeIndia.Org - India Site dedicated to freedom movement, education, culture, All Right Reserved.
