Zaheeruddin Ali Khan, managing editor of The Siasat Daily, dies during Gaddar funeral procession

Khan, aged 62, suffered a fatal cardiac arrest on Monday while attending the funeral procession of the noted poet-activist Gaddar in Alwal.

BySumit Jha

Published Aug 07, 2023 | 10:56 PMUpdatedAug 07, 2023 | 10:57 PM

File photo of Zaheeruddin Ali Khan.

The journalism world on Monday, 7 August, mourned the sudden passing of Zaheeruddin Ali Khan, the managing editor of the Hyderabad-based newspaper The Siasat Daily.

Khan, aged 62, suffered a fatal cardiac arrest on Monday while attending the funeral procession of the noted poet-activist Gaddar in Alwal.

He was the cousin of The Siasat Daily Managing Director Zahid Ali Khan.

In him, the prominent Urdu newspaper The Siasat Daily, founded in 1949 and published by the Siasat Press, lost one of its more prominent figures.

Alongside the newspaper, The Siasat Daily operates an online news portal in both Urdu and English.

Gaddar laid to rest: Hyderabad streets filled with songs, tributes, and nostalgia

Sudden collapse

Eyewitnesses reported that during Gaddar’s last rites, Zaheeruddin Ali Khan started feeling unwell and uneasy.

He was actively participating in Gaddar’s funeral procession when he suddenly complained of discomfort and collapsed on the road.

Locals promptly rushed to his aid, providing water and performing CPR while awaiting the arrival of an ambulance.

He was immediately taken to a nearby private hospital. However, the doctors pronounced him brought dead on arrival despite efforts to revive him.

He leaves behind a grieving wife and two sons.

Obituary: Gaddar’s very name was an ideology, a slogan for the downtrodden

Illustrious career

Zaheeruddin Ali Khan, known for his career in journalism spanning over 35 years, was a respected figure in the industry.

A chartered accountant by profession, he had dedicated his life to the field of journalism, leaving an indelible mark on the media landscape.

Additionally, Khan shared a close and cherished friendship with the late Gaddar, which made his passing even more emotional.

Zaheeruddin Ali Khan was not only a dedicated journalist but also a philanthropist, known for his efforts in supporting the community during times of need, including the Covid-19 pandemic.

As the news of Zaheeruddin Ali Khan’s sudden departure spread, colleagues, friends, and the community at large joined in mourning the loss of an exemplary journalist and compassionate individual. Even politicians mourned his demise.

“Extremely shocked and saddened to know the untimely demise of Janab Zaheeruddin Ali Khan Saheb @zaheer_siasat. We had an affectionate meeting last night at LB stadium where he came to pay tributes to departed soul of Shri Gaddaranna. He was a through gentleman with humility, exceptional social sensitivity and compassion for poor. He was a strong Telanganite, who actively participated during Telangana movement. Inshallah may his soul rest in peace. Deep Condolences to his family, friends and near and dear. He also played a commendable role in media as a Managing Editor of @TheSiasatDaily, [sic]” said BRS leader Sravan Dasoju.