Draft:Palani Baba

Palani Baba, also known as Ahmed Ali, played a significant role in Tamil Nadu's socio-political sphere. Born on November 14, 1950, and passing away on January 28, 1997, he emerged as a notable Muslim activist and politician, leaving an imprint on the region's history and governance. He founded and led the All India Jihad Committee in Tamil Nadu, India and passed away in 1997 in Pollachi due to murder. He served as the president of the committee until his tragic death. His life and contributions offer valuable insights into the dynamics of religious activism and political engagement within the diverse fabric of Tamil Nadu's society. He held firm views against Brahmin supremacy.

Earlier days
Palani Baba's father's name was V. M. Muhammad Ali also known as Kappikkottai Rowther from Coonoor, and his mother's name was Khadijabeevi. He hails from the Rowther clan, a sub-clan of the Maravars, and was born into a Tamil Muslim family. His hometown is a village called Ayakudi on the road to Dindigul, 4 km from Palani. His father hails from Coonoor, Nilgiris district. Baba was educated at St. Joseph's Convent, Coonoor. Following the death of his parents, his maternal uncle Abdul Rahman, known as Chinnathambi Rowther, facilitated his enrollment at Palani College. He received support from a capitalist family in Puduayakkudi. His bold public life activities, which commenced during his studies, led to strained relations with his family, who became distant due to embarrassment.

Public life
Palani Baba gained prominence during MGR's tenure when the Tamil Nadu government issued an order banning his entry into St. George's Fort in Chennai, signaling his statewide recognition. Despite opposition from the MGR-led government, the DMK offered support to Palani Baba, leading to tensions with the authorities. He embarked on extensive tours across Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Mumbai, and various Indian states, as well as countries like Sri Lanka, Singapore, and Malaysia, addressing societal issues and blending social discourse with politics, garnering widespread support.

However, his activism also resulted in legal challenges, including arrests under the National Security Act (NSA) and TADA Act. Additionally, former President Ramaswamy Venkataraman filed a case in the Madras High Court demanding reimbursement for government expenses incurred during Palani Baba's frequent visits to the Tirupati temple using public funds.

Palani Baba's activism transcended religious boundaries. He openly opposed customs like dowry and usury within the Muslim community and criticized practices such as Santhana Kutu and Dargah worship. Despite facing criticism, he maintained cordial relationships with leaders from diverse community groups, promoting harmony between Muslim and Hindu communities. Collaborating with human rights activists and organizations like the People's Committee for Civil Rights (PUCL), he actively advocated for human rights. Drawing from Islamic theology, Palani Baba engaged in policy discussions, utilizing principles of Sunnah to inform his advocacy efforts.

Death
Until his final days, Palani Baba remained actively involved with the Jihad Committee, collaborating with the Pattali Makkal Katchi and other political figures in various endeavors. He aimed to transition from public speeches to constructive initiatives, striving to unify Muslim Jamaats across Tamil Nadu. Baba, envisioning statewide unification, had organized meetings with Jamaats to expedite the unification process.

Sadly, on the evening of January 28, 1997, Baba was attacked and killed by a group of six alleged RSS assailants while attempting to enter his parked jeep outside the residence of his family friend, Basavaraj Dhanapal, in Pollachi. The motive behind the attack was believed to be a personal grudge held by the radical group RSS against Palani Baba. This event led to riots in the Coimbatore district of Tamil Nadu.

In 2005, the Madras High Court acquitted the five accused individuals linked to the murder. Palani Baba was laid to rest near New Ayakudi in Palani Taluk, with his cemetery located opposite the ITO school in the New Ayakudi village.