Abul Kashem Khan

Janab Abul Kashem Khan (April 5, 1905-March 31, 1991), best known as A. K. Khan, was a politician, public servant and industrialist from Bangladesh. He also hails from one of Bangladesh's leading industrial and political families.

Abul Kashem Khan was born in Chittagong during British rule. He obtained Bachelor of Law Degree from Presidency College, Calcutta University Standing first class second in order of merit. He practised as a junior with Shere -e-Bangla A.K.M. Fazlul Huq and was a close associate of Khawaja Nazimuddin. He entered the Bengal Judicial Service in 1935, when he entered business during Second World War. After independence, he establishes many industries in citation and pioneered Insurance, banking and Shipping. He was Chairman of Pakistan International Airlines.

As an active member of Muslim League, he was involved in the Pakistan Movement in Bengal. He was President of Chittagong District Muslim League. He was elected member, constituent Assembly of India in 1946, which he resigned on the advice of Mohammed Ali Jinnah. He was re-elected as member, Pakistan Constituent Assembly of Pakistan in 1947. Mr. Khan joined the first Cabinet of Ayub Khan (1958-62) and held the portfolios of industries, Works, Irrigation, Power and Mineral Resources. It was during his tenure considerable development of industries took place in the country. He was member of the National Assembly from 1962-1968 as an opposition member. He passed away on 31st March 1991 .

The Prime Minister of Bangladesh Begum Khaleda Zia condoled the passing away of Janab A. K. KHAN. She said "in his death the country has lost a renowned industrialist, a seasoned politician and social worker".

References

* [http://banglapedia.org/HT/K_0180.HTM Banglapedia]