[5] Arif Aqueel (also known and referred to as “Sher-e-Bhopal” English translation “The Lion of Bhopal”) started his political career as an activist student leader in 1972.

It has happened several times that BJP won all the seats in Bhopal, except Arif Aqueel's constituency—Bhopal North & saved Congress’ prestige in the State capital.

In 1995 he was appointed member of MP Waqf Board and Bar Council, in the same year was elected as President of Nagrik Sahakari Bank.

In 2008 he was elected again as an MLA in thirteenth (13th) assembly, in 2012 he became the President of Bhopal Divisional Cricket Association and member of MP Cricket Association, and in 2013 he was appointed Member of Election Committee of Congress for ticket distribution.

His daughter is married to Khalid Masoud, a General Manager employed at UPS (United Parcel Service inc.) in Saudi Arabia.