Biography of Ikram Ullah Shahid (رحمہ اللہ)

Professionally, Mr. Ikram Ullah Shahid was an advocate of High Court, widely respected for his integrity and commitment to justice. His respect for religious scholars (Ulema) was evident throughout his life, and he maintained strong ties with the religious community. He was a devout lover of the Prophet Muhammad (صلی اللہ علیہ وسلم) and was passionately committed to defending the belief in the Finality of Prophethood (Aqeeda e Khatm-e-Naboowwat). His dedication to this cause was evident when, during a protest in October 2012, he announced a bounty of $200,000 for anyone who would kill the anti-Islam filmmaker responsible for a blasphemous film. He was an active member of the Aalami Majlis-e-Khatm-e-Naboowat, Mardan and consistently defended this belief throughout his life through his writings and speeches.

Academically, Mr. Ikram Ullah Shahid had a distinguished background. He earned a Master’s degree in Islamic Studies from the University of Peshawar, followed by an LLB from the University of Karachi. Despite his active political and social engagements, he remained deeply committed to academic research, publishing numerous articles and research papers in various journals and magazines. His pursuit of knowledge led him to complete an M.Phil. in Iqbal Studies from Allama Iqbal Open University, Islamabad, where his dissertation focused on “Iqbal and Afghanistan.” He was also enrolled in a Ph.D. program, with his research centered on “Iqbal and Afghan Personalities,” but unfortunately, he was unable to complete it due to health issues.

In politics, Mr. Ikram Ullah Shahid’s career was marked by dedication and service. He entered the political arena in 1979, being elected as a Councilor and then Chairman of the Municipal Committee Mardan. He was re-elected in 1983, holding the same positions, and served a third consecutive term as a Councilor. In the 2002 general elections, he contested on the Muttahida Majlis-e-Amal (MMA) ticket and was elected as a Member of the Provincial Assembly (MPA). He subsequently served as the Deputy Speaker of the Provincial Assembly from November 27, 2002. He remained the Deputy Speaker of the assembly till March 21, 2006.

In the later part of his life, Mr. Ikram Ullah Shahid became deeply engaged in scholarly and research activities. He wrote and published more than 10 books on various topics, further solidifying his reputation as a dedicated scholar and intellectual.

Mr. Ikram Ullah Shahid passed away on June 26, 2024. His funeral was attended by a large number of people from various walks of life, reflecting the deep respect and admiration he garnered throughout his life.