The story of Anees Fatima, Bihar's first woman MLA, popularly known as 'Lady Imam'

The Inspiring Story of Anees Fatima: Bihar’s First Woman Legislator Known as the ‘Lady Imam’

As the political atmosphere in Bihar heats up ahead of the upcoming elections, it is a fitting time to remember the trailblazers who helped shape the state’s social and political fabric. Among these icons stands Anees Fatima, a name etched in history as Bihar’s first woman MLA and the first Muslim woman legislator in the region. Popularly known as the “Lady Imam” for her bold and progressive views, Anees Fatima was not just a politician but also a freedom fighter, teacher, and social reformer who dedicated her life to women’s empowerment and India’s independence.

Early Life and Education

Born in 1901 in Patna, Anees Fatima grew up in an era when women’s participation in education and public life was extremely limited. She completed her education at Badshah Nawaz Rizvi School (Madrasa Islamia). From a young age, she displayed a sharp intellect and fearless spirit, qualities that would later define her role in India’s freedom struggle and her pioneering political career.

A Freedom Fighter with a Cause

Anees Fatima became actively involved in the Non-Cooperation Movement of 1920 initiated by Mahatma Gandhi. During this period, she fearlessly led protests against liquor shops in Patna, becoming one of the first women to take a public stand against social evils. Her powerful speeches and leadership abilities soon caught national attention.

Recognizing her potential, the Indian National Congress selected her as part of the delegation sent to England to oppose the Montagu–Chelmsford Reforms — a remarkable achievement for a Muslim woman at the time.

Her activism continued into the Civil Disobedience Movement of 1930, during which she, along with Gauri Das, led a procession of over 3,000 women in Patna. When the British government issued warrants and imposed a fine of ₹201 against her, she refused to pay, standing firm in her commitment to the freedom struggle.

Championing Women’s Empowerment

Beyond politics, Anees Fatima’s greatest legacy lies in her tireless work for women’s education and self-reliance. She founded the Nari Pratishthan Sansthan, an institution dedicated to providing vocational training to women at a time when female employment was rare.

She also established Aghor Kamini, a women’s organization that promoted self-sufficiency among women in Bengal and Bihar. Under her leadership, countless women learned skills that helped them earn a livelihood and gain independence.

Inspired by Mahatma Gandhi’s Swadeshi Movement, Anees Fatima and her family gave up foreign goods, luxury, and western attire to adopt Khadi and indigenous products. Her commitment to self-reliance and national pride made her a respected figure across communities.

Political Journey and Historic Victory

In 1937, Anees Fatima made history by contesting the Bihar Assembly elections as an independent candidate and emerging victorious. This victory made her the first woman legislator in Bihar’s history.

She was also an active member of Anjuman Tarraqi-e-Urdu, a cultural organization that campaigned for Urdu to be recognized as Bihar’s second official language. After India’s independence, she continued her efforts to promote education, particularly for women, and remained associated with the Khuda Bakhsh Oriental Public Library, one of Patna’s most prestigious institutions.

Personal Life and Legacy

Anees Fatima was married to Sir Syed Ali Imam, a prominent barrister who represented India at the 1919 Round Table Conference in London. The couple shared a vision of a progressive and self-reliant India. After Ali Imam’s death in 1932, Anees Fatima devoted herself entirely to public service and social reform.

Even today, her memory lives on in Aneesabad, a locality in Patna named in her honor. She passed away in 1979, leaving behind an enduring legacy of courage, intellect, and reform.

Remembering the ‘Lady Imam’

Anees Fatima’s story is not merely about being the first woman MLA or a Muslim reformer — it is the story of a woman who challenged conventions, fought colonial power, and redefined women’s role in society. Her voice echoed through rallies and classrooms alike, empowering generations to dream beyond boundaries.

As Bihar prepares for yet another election, remembering figures like Anees Fatima reminds us that true leadership is built not on power, but on purpose, conviction, and the courage to stand against the tide.