But this persona unravelled as Ahmed was accused of kidnappings, murders, extortion and land grabs.

But this persona unravelled as Ahmed was accused of kidnappings, murders, extortion and land grabs.

More than 100 cases were registered against him and he was said to be involved in as many more "but the victims were too afraid to lodge complaints", he added.

Over two decades Ahmed had spells in prison but but he maintained his sway over Uttar Pradesh's underworld and ensured his men were protected.

But after the regional Samajwadi Party severed ties with him and the Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party came to power in the state that Ahmed's influence began to wane.