Says Gujjar leader advocated for STs’ rights & Gujjar Bakarwal status
Releases commemorative stamp honouring Gujjar leader Wazir Mohd Hakla Poonchi
Srinagar, July 24: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today unveiled a commemorative postage stamp to honor the legacy of Late Wazir Mohd Hakla Poonchi, a distinguished Gujjar leader, social worker, and writer.
In his address, the Lt Governor praised Poonchi’s profound contributions to the socio-economic upliftment of the Gujjar Bakarwal community in Jammu and Kashmir. “Wazir Mohd Hakla Poonchi was a pivotal figure in national integration and dedicated his life to advancing the rights of Scheduled Tribes. His relentless efforts included leading movements for the Gujjar Bakarwal community’s tribal status,” Sinha remarked.
The Lt Governor highlighted Poonchi’s lifelong campaigns to inspire the youth of the Gujjar Bakarwal community to engage in nation-building and selfless service. He emphasized that the community has continued to make significant contributions to the nation’s security and development.
Reiterating the UT Administration’s commitment under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Sinha called for tribal community members to assist in combating terrorism and drug trafficking by providing accurate information to security agencies. “The Gujjar Bakarwal community has consistently supported security forces. It is crucial to identify and isolate those supporting the terror network,” he urged.
Shamsher Rana Hakla Poonchi, son of the late leader, expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Modi and the UT Administration for recognizing his father’s contributions to the nation.
The ceremony was attended by Justice Mohd. Akram Chowdhary of the J&K and Ladakh High Court, Chief Postmaster General Amitabh Singh, family members of Wazir Mohd Hakla Poonchi, and prominent figures from the Gujjar Bakarwal community. Ms. Tazeem Akhter, Chairperson of the District Development Council Poonch, Ch. Mohd. Yasin, Deputy Commissioner Poonch, and former legislators were also present at Raj Bhawan.
