Mohammad Irfan Emerges as the Unexpected Face of CJP Protest, Receives Call from Priyanka Gandhi
The daily wage worker went viral for his views on democracy and workers' rights, prompting Rahul Gandhi to visit his home.
New Delhi: Mohammad Irfan, a daily wage worker from Delhi, has emerged as one of the most talked-about faces of the recent CJP protest at Jantar Mantar. Although he was neither a political leader nor an office-bearer of the organisation, a short interview during the protest went viral on social media, bringing him national attention.
The spotlight on Irfan intensified after Congress MP Rahul Gandhi visited his home in Delhi's Savda JJ Colony. During the visit, Rahul also connected Irfan with Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra over a phone call.
Recalling the conversation, Irfan said Priyanka jokingly asked him to persuade Rahul Gandhi to get married, saying he does not listen to her. Irfan responded in a light-hearted manner, saying he would rather Rahul remain unmarried, drawing laughter during the exchange.
Irfan first gained public attention after speaking to a journalist at the CJP protest held on July 20. His remarks on the Constitution, democracy, workers' rights and the dignity of labour resonated widely online. Many viewers were surprised by his understanding of social and constitutional issues despite his limited formal education.
The 35-year-old revealed that he never attended regular school and learned most of what he knows through Google Voice Search, YouTube and the internet. He described these platforms as his "university," saying they helped him understand the Constitution, democracy and labour-related issues.
Irfan earns his livelihood by selling ice and said he makes around ₹500 a day, which barely covers household expenses, children's education and medical emergencies. He stressed that poverty is not only about low income but also about the struggle to live with dignity.
He also said he never went to Jantar Mantar seeking fame. Instead, he wanted to highlight the challenges faced by workers in India's unorganised sector. According to Irfan, democracy thrives on dialogue, and governments should always keep communication channels open with protesters.
During his visit, Rahul Gandhi invited Irfan and his family to Parliament. Irfan said he did not seek any personal help from the Congress leader, requesting only that the concerns of poor and marginalised workers be heard.
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