Ahad Miah: Srimangal’s Visionary Leader and Champion of Education

Sangram Datta

In the lush hills of Srimangal, where tea gardens stretch endlessly, the legacy of Ahad Miah continues to shape the community he served. Known locally as the “Tiger of Srimangal,” Miah was more than a politician—he was a community builder, philanthropist, and tireless advocate for education, whose influence is still felt across the district.

Even without formal schooling, his vision inspired his children to become highly educated.

Humble Beginnings
Born on December 29, 1946, in Jagannathpur village of Sadar Upazila of Moulvibazar district, Ahad Miah grew up in modest circumstances. Among four brothers and two sisters, he was the youngest. Limited educational opportunities did not deter him. Known for his curiosity and practical approach, he quickly became a familiar figure in Srimangal, often seen discussing local issues and civic planning with residents and colleagues.

Ahad Miah began his public service early. In 1974, he was elected as a Ward Commissioner of Sreemangal Municipality, a post he held until 1981. His early political career coincided with a period of significant change in the locality. 
Following the departure of General Osmani, the Supreme Commander of the Liberation War, from the Awami League to form the Jonota Party, Mr. Ahad joined the party under the leadership of Dr. Abdul Ali, a former Awami League leader from Sreemangal.

Education: A Family Legacy
Ahad Miah strongly believed in the power of education, despite his own limited schooling. Determined that his children would have opportunities he never had, he guided them toward academic excellence:

Lutfun Nahar Nazu, eldest daughter, completed her undergraduate degree and earned an LLB.

Dr. Amirun Nahar Nargis, second daughter, earned an MBBS, MPhil in Pharmacology, and a Master’s in Public Health (MPH). She now serves as an Associate Professor of Pharmacology at Z. H. Medical College, Dhaka.

Fayzun Nahar Jasi, third daughter, completed undergraduate and master’s degrees in Sociology, along with an LLB.

Advocate Kamrun Nahar Munne, fourth daughter, studied law at the University of London, completing an LLB (Honors) and LLM, and now practices at the Bangladesh High Court.

Dr. Nahar Tani, his youngest daughter, is a cancer specialist in the United Kingdom, with an MBBS, MSc in Cancer and Clinical Oncology, and a Clinical Fellowship at Imperial College NHS Trust Hospitals. She is in the process of pursuing her PhD and MRCP certification and works at Imperial College Hospital Trust in the NHS. After obtaining her global success, she plans to return to Srimangal to provide free medical care, particularly for underprivileged patients.

Jahangir Alam Shohag, his only son, earned a Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com). In the 2021 Srimangal municipal election, his son was elected as a municipal councilor unopposed.

“Stand on your own feet. If you are educated and independent, nothing can hold you back,” Miah would tell his children—a philosophy that clearly shaped their achievements.

Building Education, Infrastructure, and Philanthropy
During the tenure of the Jatiya Party, Ahad Miah oversaw the nationalization of Srimangal College and Srimangal Girls’ High School, a landmark in regional educational development. He also initiated the construction of a fruit market worth millions of taka, supporting local commerce.

In 1988, Miah was elected Member of Parliament for Moulvibazar-4, amid boycotts by major parties including the Awami League and BNP. Following his election, he personally met President Hussain Muhammad Ershad in Dhaka and handed over a check of five lakh taka to support flood victims—an act of philanthropy covered by BTV at the time.

His tenure saw the initiation of key development projects: expanding educational facilities, repairing roads, improving public services, and constructing the long-awaited foot-over bridge at Srimangal Railway Station. Miah was also a generous supporter of healthcare and education. He donated 50,000 taka to Moulvibazar Eye Hospital in Matarkapun, becoming a donor member. Additionally, he contributed to Monai Ullah High School, The Buds Residential and Model College, and various socio-cultural organizations.

Political Resilience and Service
In 1997, Ahad Miah left the Jatiya Party and formally joined the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), led by opposition leader Begum Khaleda Zia, during a grand gathering at Mintu Road in Dhaka. At the prestigious event, M. Saifur Rahman, former Finance Minister and a prominent figure from Sylhet, personally introduced him to the attendees, hailing him as the “Tiger of Srimangal.”

Ahad Miah faced political challenges and controversy, yet he remained steadfast. He contested the 1991 and 1996 parliamentary elections, demonstrating resilience and dedication to public service. Beyond politics, he donated 17.5 million taka to mosques, temples, and social welfare organizations, reflecting his belief that wealth carries a responsibility to the community.
In 2004, he won the Srimangal municipal elections, defeating his own nephew in a closely contested race. As Mayor, he implemented numerous infrastructure and community development projects, demonstrating that family rivalries never hindered his commitment to public welfare.

Respect Across the Political Spectrum
Known for his integrity, Ahad Miah maintained cordial relationships with leaders across party lines. From Awami League and BNP to smaller local parties, he collaborated to ensure public welfare projects were implemented without partisanship.

Throughout his life, Mohammad Ahad Miah made significant contributions to the political, social, and cultural landscape of Sreemangal. Alongside his public service, he was a successful and respected businessman, whose generosity and vision continue to inspire.

A Lasting Legacy
Ahad Miah passed away on November 8, 2021, in Dhaka. He was laid to rest in his family graveyard at village Jagannathpur in Moulvibazar Sadar Upazilla. Yet his contributions continue to resonate—from improved schools and markets to the children he nurtured into leaders, doctors, and scholars.

“One life, committed to service and education, can create ripples that last generations,” said a local resident.
In Srimangal, Ahad Miah’s name remains synonymous with vision, education, and community service—a reminder that true leadership is measured not by titles, but by the impact one leaves behind.

Dr. Tani, the youngest daughter of Mr. Mohammad Ahad Miah, played a notable role in the preparation of this report, contributing valuable information and data from London."