The Great Soul of Bhatkal: Remembering Late S.M. Yahya Sahab
Remembering the Visionary Leader Who Transformed Bhatkal Through Politics and Philanthropy
Late Mohammed Yahya Siddiqui (S.M. Yahya) Sahab was a remarkable leader whose life and legacy continue to inspire generations in Karnataka and beyond. A native of Bhatkal, he rose from humble beginnings to serve as a Cabinet Minister in the Karnataka Government and as a guiding force behind several educational and social institutions.
Early Life and Education
Born on 3 February 1935 in the coastal town of Bhatkal, S.M. Yahya Sahab completed his early schooling at St. Joseph’s Convent, Central High School, and Government College in Madikeri. He later pursued higher education at Loyola College, Madras, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree. His thirst for knowledge led him to the University of Bombay, where he completed his M.A., LLB, and LLM degrees.
In 1968, he began his career as a lawyer and soon after joined the faculty at KLE Law College and later Sri J. Renuka Acharya Law College in Bangalore, where he shared his knowledge and passion for law with young minds.
Entry into Politics
S.M. Yahya’s dedication to public service and strong organisational skills caught the attention of senior Congress leaders, including K.H. Ranganath, who encouraged him to enter politics. In 1970, Yahya Sahab was appointed Executive Member of the District Congress Committee for Uttara Kannada District, marking the beginning of his political journey.
In 1972, he contested and won the Assembly election from Bhatkal constituency, becoming a Member of the Karnataka Legislative Assembly. His hard work and commitment to the welfare of people soon earned him a place in the state cabinet under Chief Minister Devaraj Urs.
A Distinguished Career in Governance
Over the years, S.M. Yahya Sahab held several key portfolios in the Karnataka Government, including Labour, Tourism, Ports, Finance, Education, Industries, and Power. His tenure was marked by development-oriented decisions that benefited both urban and rural communities.
He was re-elected multiple times and became known for his honest leadership, humility, and dedication to improving the lives of the underprivileged. As Education Minister, he prioritized expanding access to higher education, especially for minority and rural students.
Champion of Education and Social Development
Beyond politics, S.M. Yahya devoted much of his life to the upliftment of his community through education. He served the Anjuman Hami-e-Muslimeen, Bhatkal, for nearly three decades — first as General Secretary and later as President.
Under his leadership, Anjuman flourished. He was instrumental in:
- Securing 50 acres of land for the Anjuman Abad.
- Establishing the Anjuman Institute of Technology and Management (AITM) in 1980.
- Starting pre-university and degree colleges under the Anjuman umbrella.
- Ensuring several institutions received government recognition and aid.
His vision helped transform Bhatkal into a centre of educational excellence, giving thousands of students access to quality education and better opportunities.
A Lasting Legacy
S.M. Yahya Sahab also served as the President of the Bhatkal Muslim Jamaat, Bangalore, where he played a key role in the creation of the Shamsuddin Memorial Complex. He was deeply committed to helping students from Bhatkal, Murudeshwar, Manki, and neighbouring areas find accommodation and support in Bangalore.
In his honour, the S.M. Yahya Memorial Hostel was established in Bangalore. a place that has nurtured countless students who later became engineers, doctors, chartered accountants, lawyers, and professionals around the world.
Today, his memory is also preserved through the S.M. Yahya Memorial Block at the Anjuman Institute of Technology and Management in Bhatkal.
Remembering a True Gentleman in Politics
Late S.M. Yahya Sahab passed away on January 28, 1998, leaving behind a shining example of integrity, service, and vision. His contributions to education, politics, and community development continue to inspire generations.
The inauguration of the S.M. Yahya Memorial Hostel (New Wing) in Bangalore stands as a testament to his dream to empower communities through education and opportunity. His life reminds us that true leadership is not about power, but about service to humanity.
May his soul rest in peace, and may his legacy continue to guide and inspire us all.
InshaAllah.
