Basit Jehangir Sheikh
A Legacy of Courage, Loyalty, and Leadership
Basit Jehangir Sheikh stood as a towering figure in Pakistan’s political history, embodying resilience, steadfastness, and an unyielding commitment to democracy. Born into a distinguished family, Basit Jehangir’s journey was shaped by the values of courage, conviction, and service to the community. His family legacy is rich with contributions to both social and political spheres in Kasur.
His father, Sheikh Muhammad Jehangir, was a man of many accomplishments. A double master’s degree holder, he was not only a dedicated educator but also a businessman. Sheikh Muhammad Jehangir was a prominent social and political leader in Kasur, serving as the Secretary of Anjuman-e-Islamia Kasur. His vision led to the establishment of numerous medical and academic institutions in the city, cementing his legacy as a key figure in the development of Kasur. His dedication to the welfare of his community and his leadership in various capacities inspired those around him.
Basit Jehangir’s grandfather, Sheikh Rahim Bukhsh, laid the foundation for the family’s prominence in the region. Before the partition, Sheikh Rahim Bukhsh was a renowned businessman in Kasur, specializing in cotton ginning. His contributions extended beyond business, as he was also an Honorary Magistrate in 1919, further enhancing the family’s influence in the area.
These formative influences played a pivotal role in shaping Basit Jehangir Sheikh’s character and his steadfast dedication to the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) and its visionary leaders. His journey is not just a story of political activism; it is a testament to the power of loyalty, sacrifice, and belief in a better Pakistan.
A Historic Bond with Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto
The story begins on November 26, 1967, when a young Basit Jehangir Sheikh welcomed Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto to Kasur. This meeting marked the beginning of a profound and unbroken relationship with the Bhutto family. Basit Jehangir became a founding member of the PPP at its first convention on November 30, 1969, setting the foundation for a lifelong commitment to the party’s ideals.
His prescience and political acumen quickly caught the attention of Chairman Bhutto. In 1970, he famously warned Bhutto against awarding a party ticket to Ahmad Raza Kasuri, a caution that later proved prophetic. This insight earned him Bhutto’s enduring trust and marked the start of a close camaraderie.
A Defender of Democracy in the Face of Adversity
Basit Jehangir Sheikh’s unwavering courage was tested time and again. In 1974, his outspokenness against party politics led to an assassination attempt that left him severely injured. Yet, six months later, he emerged from the hospital more determined than ever to serve his cause.
In 1977, he was elected as an MPA from Kasur, but his triumph was short-lived as General Zia-ul-Haq’s martial law swept the country. Arrested and detained in Kasur jail, Basit Jehangir Sheikh became a symbol of resistance. When Begum Nusrat Bhutto launched the first open defiance campaign against martial law from his home in 1978, it underscored his pivotal role in the struggle for democracy.
Exiled temporarily in the early 1980s, he returned to keep the PPP alive during its darkest days, earning the admiration of workers and leaders alike. His unflinching loyalty was rewarded when Shaheed Benazir Bhutto elevated him to the PPP’s Punjab Parliamentary Board upon her return in 1986.
A Political Visionary and Community Leader
Basit Jehangir Sheikh’s influence extended beyond politics to the very fabric of Kasur. Appointed as the first District President of PPP Kasur in 1976, he played an instrumental role in the creation of Kasur as a separate district, with the city becoming its headquarters—a monumental achievement for the region.
In 1988, he contested for a National Assembly seat, but systematic rigging thwarted his success. Despite the setbacks, he continued to serve as PPP’s General Secretary for Lahore Division from 1989 to 1996, always putting the party and its mission above personal gain.
A Trusted Confidant of Shaheed Benazir Bhutto
The bond between Basit Jehangir Sheikh and Shaheed Benazir Bhutto was one of mutual respect and trust. He was by her side during critical moments, including the aftermath of the Karsaz tragedy in 2007. His idea of commemorating the unidentified martyrs of the incident at Garhi Khuda Baksh was widely lauded by party leadership.
His final meeting with Shaheed Benazir Bhutto on December 25, 2007, remains a poignant memory—a fitting culmination of a partnership forged in shared struggle and unwavering loyalty.
A Legacy of Inspiration
Basit Jehangir Sheikh’s life is a beacon of inspiration for generations. From his days as a student leader at Forman Christian College to his role as a mentor and motivator for PPP workers, he left an indelible mark on Pakistan’s political and social landscape.
Even today, his resilience and integrity resonate with those who value principles over politics. He is remembered not only for his remarkable achievements but also for his enduring humility, wisdom, and compassion.
Key Achievements of Basit Jehangir Sheikh
Student Leadership and Early Association with Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto (1967)
- Joined Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto as a student leader while at Forman Christian College University, Lahore.
- Hosted Bhutto’s first visit to his residence in Kasur in August 1967.
Founding Member of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) (1967)
- Joined the PPP during its first convention held on November 30, 1967, as a founding member.
Leadership Roles in PPP Kasur
- Appointed President of PPP City Kasur in 1969.
- Became the first District President of PPP Kasur in 1976 upon the formation of the new district.
- Played a pivotal role in the establishment of Kasur as the district headquarters through tireless efforts.
Provincial Assembly Membership (1977)
- Elected as a Member of the Provincial Assembly, Punjab, representing PP-148 in 1977.
Support for Democracy and Opposition to Martial Law (1978-1983)
- Hosted Begum Nusrat Bhutto’s first open violation of Martial Law campaign at his residence in 1978.
- Welcomed Benazir Bhutto to his home during her visit to Kasur in 1979.
- Became a member of the Punjab Council in 1983, continuing his active role in political leadership.
National-Level Contributions (1988-1996)
- Appointed as a Member of the Central Parliamentary Board in 1988, actively contributing to key political decisions.
- Awarded the National Assembly ticket for constituency NA-107 in 1988.
- Served as the General Secretary of PPP Lahore Division from 1989 to 1996, cementing his leadership within the party.