London postgrad Iqra Hasan beats BJP in once communally charged Kairana

In the politically charged landscape of Western Uttar Pradesh, often likened to the wild wild west, a new star has emerged, weaving a narrative that resonates with both heritage and hope. Iqra Hasan, a London-educated postgraduate, has not only accepted her privilege but has also used it to woo voters in Kairana with a blend of empathy, education, and earnest commitment to public service. She has now won this seat with a huge margin.

Iqra’s campaign trail is marked by poignant moments that underscore her popularity. As her car approaches a rally, women from nearby rooftops shower her with rose petals, while a young man’s slogan, "Vote for Iqra," is gently corrected by an elder to "call her Iqra behan," showcasing the respect and affection she commands.

Iqra’s political journey is deeply rooted in her family's legacy. Her grandfather, Akhtar Hasan, made history in 1984 by winning the Kairana seat on a Congress ticket, defeating Mayawati in her debut Lok Sabha election. The family's political mantle was then carried by her father, Munawwar Hasan, who became an MP in 1996 on a Samajwadi Party ticket until his untimely death in a road accident in 2008. Her mother, Tabassum Hasan, subsequently upheld the family's political presence, winning the Kairana Lok Sabha seat on a BSP ticket in 2009 and again in a 2018 bypoll.

Iqra's elder brother, Nahid Hasan, continued the legacy as a three-time MLA, with his most recent victory in 2022 achieved while he was incarcerated under the Gangster Act—a pivotal moment that thrust Iqra into the political limelight. Ensuring her brother's victory from behind the scenes, she demonstrated her formidable political acumen.

Iqra’s educational background is equally impressive. She completed her schooling at Queen Mary’s School in New Delhi, graduated from Lady Shri Ram College for Women, and pursued postgraduate studies in international politics and law from SOAS University in London. Despite her education, Iqra humbly identifies herself as a farmer in her election affidavit, emphasizing her connection to the land and its people.

In 2019, during the CAA protests, Iqra Hasan was in London. Picture and videos of her went viral where she was seen holding a placard that read, 'In solidarity with the students of Jamia & AMU'. It further read, '#REJECT CAA NRC= ANARCHY'

In her rallies, Iqra passionately speaks about upholding her family's "legacy of service" and addresses the shift towards communal politics following her father’s death. Her mission, she says, is to bridge these divides and foster harmony through education.

"Iqra means taalim (education). Education is very important to keep harmony in society," she asserts.

Her emotional connection to her late father often surfaces during her speeches. In one heartfelt address, Iqra broke down while recalling her father, expressing that although he is no longer present, the people of Kairana have filled his void with their overwhelming support.

Her candid acknowledgement of her privileged background adds a layer of authenticity to her campaign. She openly discusses the challenges she faces as a privileged woman in a patriarchal society, using this platform to advocate for the welfare of less privileged women.

In Kairana, 14 people were in the fray, and two were women. Against all the odds, Iqra has emerged victorious by winning the seat that her mother, father and grandfather once held.