Draft:Afroz Mulla

Afroz Mulla

Afroz Mulla during his time at the University of Glasgow, 2023

Afroz Mulla (born 9 June 1996) is an Indian advocate, politician, and social activist, best known for his advocacy of political representation for marginalized groups and his leadership in opposing the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and National Register of Citizens (NRC). Mulla is currently contesting the Vidhan Sabha elections from the Hadapsar constituency in Pune, representing the Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi party in Maharashtra. His platform focuses on issues related to rights, reservation, and anti-hate speech legislation. He is also recognized for his work in public interest litigations (PILs) and criminal law, having represented underrepresented communities in the Mumbai High Court.

Early Life and Education

Afroz Mulla was born in Pune on 9 June 1996. Growing up in Pune, Maharashtra, he developed a deep interest in social justice and human rights, which inspired him to pursue a career in law. Mulla completed his law education at AKK New Law Academy, Pune, and further enhanced his legal expertise by earning a Master’s degree in Law from the prestigious University of Glasgow. There, he specialized in a research project focusing on finance and social justice. At Glasgow, Mulla also concentrated on international human rights issues, which would later shape his approach to legal and political activism in India.

Leadership and Student Council

In 2018-2019, Mulla served as the President of the Student Council at his university, where he led various student initiatives, advocating for student rights, social justice, and educational reform. His leadership in student politics helped shape his future role in social and political activism.

Legal Career

Afroz Mulla is a practicing advocate at the Mumbai High Court. Over the course of his career, he has worked extensively on Public Interest Litigations (PILs) and criminal law, focusing on cases involving social justice and human rights. Mulla has earned a reputation for his dedication to high-impact cases, particularly those benefiting marginalized and underrepresented communities. He is recognized for his ongoing efforts to address the challenges faced by various disenfranchised groups in India.

Political Career

Afroz Mulla is a well-known figure in Indian politics, particularly as a Muslim youth leader. He has been a vocal advocate for the representation of Muslims in Indian politics and has consistently called for better representation of the community in both local and national spheres. Mulla has been at the forefront of protests against the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and National Register of Citizens (NRC), voicing concerns about the impact these laws have on Muslims and marginalized groups.

In the upcoming Vidhan Sabha elections, Mulla is contesting from the Hadapsar constituency in Pune. His political platform focuses on issues such as Muslim reservation, opposition to hate speech, and the preservation of Vishalgadh. Mulla's candidacy represents a commitment to bringing justice and equitable representation to Muslim communities in Maharashtra and ensuring that their voices are heard in the political arena.

Activism

Beyond his legal and political endeavors, Afroz Mulla is an active social activist. He has participated in several grassroots movements aimed at empowering marginalized groups and promoting human rights. His activism spans various areas, including farmers’ rights, youth empowerment, and advocating for stronger anti-hate speech legislation in India. Mulla believes in the power of grassroots mobilization to bring about real social change and works tirelessly to create a more inclusive society.

Personal Life

Afroz Mulla is married to Sufi Shaikh, an advocate with a background in International Human Rights Law. Together, they share a passion for social justice and political advocacy. The couple is committed to advancing human rights and has been actively involved in promoting legal reforms and social equality. Mulla's family has been supportive of his work and continues to stand by him as he advocates for the betterment of underrepresented communities.