Mahfooz Alam/Patna
Dr M. Ejaz Ali, a former Rajya Sabha Member of Parliament, has been a tireless advocate for the underprivileged for nearly thirty years. His guiding belief is that true development is hollow without social equality and the protection of the rights of the poor.
Widely regarded as a champion of the marginalized, Dr Ali’s life story is both inspiring and humbling. Born in 1958 and raised in an orphanage, he rose above poverty through academic dedication, ultimately earning admission to the prestigious Patna Medical College.
Dr M. Ejaz Ali performing a surgery
While many doctors pursue financial prosperity, Dr Ali chose a different path. He established a clinic where consultation fees were initially as low as ₹2 to ₹3 and, even today, stand at a mere ₹10. Over four decades later, his unwavering commitment to accessible healthcare remains unchanged.
In response, he launched a movement demanding Scheduled Caste status for these communities under Article 341 of the Constitution. His campaign has spanned major cities including Patna, Delhi, Kolkata, and Lucknow, and continues with undiminished energy.
Dr Ali firmly believes that granting Dalit Muslims Scheduled Caste status is crucial for their upliftment. According to him, national progress hinges on addressing the needs of marginalized communities, and constitutional recognition under Article 341 would be a vital step toward resolving numerous social injustices.
Dr M. Ejaz Ali wiuth Nitish Kumar
Even today, Dr Ali treats hundreds of patients while continuing his relentless advocacy for justice. His efforts have sparked increased awareness among backward Muslim communities, many of whom are now more politically aware and assertive about their rights.
He has also been instrumental in promoting education and political engagement within these communities. In a recent event held in Patna, Dr Ali organized a major rally calling for the inclusion of backward Muslims under the Prevention of Atrocities Act. He believes such legal safeguards could reduce communal tensions and curtail violence.
Dr M. Ejaz Ali being felicitated
To Dr Ali, meaningful social service requires personal sacrifice and unwavering optimism. He frequently calls on the government to implement his proposals for bringing disadvantaged Muslim castes into the national mainstream. As the first doctor in his family, Dr Ali takes immense pride in his role as a catalyst for change in rural and backward areas.
His decades of work have instilled a renewed sense of confidence among Dalit Muslims, who now prioritize leaders and representatives who address real issues over those who rely on political rhetoric.
READ MORE: Tayyaba Afroze broke barriers to become first Muslim woman pilot from Bihar
Dr Ali is outspoken in his criticism of pseudo-secularism and communal politics, which he believes have done lasting harm to the country. For India to truly progress, he argues, it must focus on fundamental concerns—jobs, housing, education, and basic public services. Only then can the nation move forward with peace, prosperity, and justice for all.