Former law minister Asif Pasha passes away at 96

Hyderabad: Former Law Minister and senior Congress leader Asif Pasha passed away on Sunday, December 28, bringing to a close a life defined by public service, quiet dignity and unwavering commitment to society.

Pasha died just three days after turning 96 on December 25. He had been ailing for some time and was suffering from heart-related complications, leading to frequent hospitalisation in recent months.

He is survived by his sons Zahoor Ahmed and Afaq Tanveer, and daughter Husna Anjum.

A respected figure in Andhra Pradesh politics, Pasha was elected to the Andhra Pradesh Assembly from Vijayawada on a Congress ticket in 1972, becoming the first Muslim MLA from the state. He served a six-year term as Law Minister from 1972 to 1978, during a turbulent phase following the declaration of the Emergency.

The nonagenarian was a key member of the cabinet of then Chief Minister J Vengala Rao, earning a reputation for his legal acumen and principled approach to governance. During his ministerial stint, he held the portfolios of Law, Prisons and Printing Press.

A law graduate from Aligarh Muslim University, where he also earned an MA in Economics, Pasha practised law in Vijayawada for nearly two decades from 1952 before entering politics. 

In a touching coincidence, Pasha had received the first copy of his autobiography, “No Regrets,” a day before his death. The book, which was awaiting formal release, chronicles his journey through public life and offers rare insights into his experiences and times. He had been personally involved in planning its launch, making the moment all the more poignant.

Beyond ministerial office, Asif Pasha’s contributions to public and minority welfare were extensive. He served as the first president of the Andhra Pradesh Urdu Academy, chaired the Minorities Commission and was a trustee of the HEH Nizam’s Trust. His commitment to education and social upliftment was reflected in his role as patron to several institutions, including the All-India Muslim Educational Society, the Aligarh Old Boys Association and Dr Zakir Hussain College of Arts and Science.

Pasha’s life was one of quiet achievement and enduring service. With his final words captured in his book, aptly titled No Regrets, he leaves behind a legacy that will be remembered with respect, gratitude and affection.