Malick Asgar Hashmi

The quiet presence of Dr Sameena Begum, a senior leader of the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) and the Corporator of the Kurmaguda Division in Yakutpura, Hyderabad, in political arena exemplifies strong leadership and promises delivered to people.

Like Asaduddin Owaisi, president of her party, the AIMIM, Dr Shameena's ideological stance is clear and her focus on grassroots social service and local development. Outside Hyderabad, many may not know about this committed Muslim leader, but within the city of Charminar, her name has become synonymous with hope and trust.

Dr Sameena is only a politician, but also a medical professional and a visionary entrepreneur. Her education and experience form the foundation of her administrative and social enterprises.

She holds a Bachelor of Unani Medicine and Surgery (BUMS) and a Master of Health Management (MHM) degree and these qualifications equip her with expertise in healthcare administration and hospital operations.

Sameena Begum on the round of her ward

She also completed a Master of Laws (LLM), gaining thorough knowledge of medical law, ethics and patients’ rights. This rare blend of medical, managerial and legal expertise enables her to lead both her hospital and constituency with authority and balance.

Dr Sameena is the founder of the Sameena Group of Hospitals.

She began the journey in 1987 with a small maternity home and hardly anyone could imagine that it would evolve into a large multi-speciality hospital. Through hard work, foresight and a patient-centric approach, it has grown into a trusted institution for the poor and middle class.

She often says, “Politics has its place, and social service has its place.” This belief keeps her grounded in both healthcare and public life.

Sameena Begum being felicitated

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr Sameena’s contribution was especially significant. At a time of fear and uncertainty, she stood on the front lines—keeping her hospital open to patients and personally engaging in relief work on the streets.

She went with her family to receive the Covishield vaccine at the Yakutpura Super Bazaar Government Hospital, a gesture that built public confidence and encouraged hundreds to get vaccinated. Her actions demonstrated how the right balance between politics and service can benefit society.

Besides healthcare, education also lies close to her heart. She founded Samina Vidya Bhavan School and Samina Vocational College.

She believes education is the key to societal progress. Alongside academic learning, students are taught practical skills to become self-reliant. Her conviction is that when one generation becomes educated and capable, the most marginalised sections of society rise with it.

Dr Sameena’s vision extends beyond her ward. She seeks to implement international standards of development in her area. During a recent visit to Australia, she observed the organisation and aesthetics of railway stations there and resolved to transform the Yakutpura Railway Station along similar lines—reflecting a perspective that is both local and global.

Patients at Sameena Begum's hospital

As a corporator, she doesn't operate out of an air-conditioned office; she walks the lanes of Banu Nagar, Salauddin Nagar and Talab Chanchalam, personally inspecting issues such as drainage, water supply, damaged roads and street lighting. She engages directly with officials and follows up on all issues flagged by the public.

Recently, soon after being discharged from a Hospital, where she was admitted for dengue treatment, she returned to public service. In collaboration with the Lions Club of Charminar Centennial, she organised a free eye camp at KGN Clinic.

In AIMIM, she often plays a strategic role. She has been instrumental in bringing more women into the party, strengthening the organisation, and ensuring effective implementation of decisions. Since she was elected a corporator from Kurmaguda in 2016, she has taken women’s participation at the local level to new heights.

Sameena Begum speaking at a public event

Dr Sameena Begum’s life demonstrates that with the right qualifications, a clear vision and a spirit of service, meaningful social change is possible. She is not just a doctor or a leader, but a compassionate human being who shares in the joys and sorrows of her people.

Her journey shows that when politics is practised with honesty and intent, it can become the highest form of social service.

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She has proved that a leader matches his words with action.