Uplifting marginalized communities is our duty: CM Omar Abdullah

JAMMU: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Sunday emphasized that uplifting marginalized communities like Gujjar-Bakerwal is not an act of favour but a fundamental duty of his government.

The Chief Minister said that despite the limitations in ministerial appointments after last year’s elections, he ensured representation for the Gujjar community by appointing Javed Ahmed Rana as a minister in his cabinet.

Minister Javed Ahmed Rana, who also addressed the event, was in attendance. Minister Satish Sharma, Advisor to the CM Nasir Aslam Wani, Patron Chief GDCT Abdul Hamid Choudhary and Chairman GDCT Arshid Ali Choudhary also spoke at the event.

“After the election, we had to think about the cabinet ministers. However, there was very little scope. I requested Mr. Javed Rana to join the cabinet. Not only would he serve Jammu and Kashmir, but he will also be responsible for representing the community, being your voice, and addressing all your issues,” the Chief Minister stated at a felicitation ceremony held by Gurjar Desh Charitable Trust in his honor following his election as Chief Minister of J&K. Omar Abdullah further stated that by inducting Javed Rana into the cabinet, he aimed to ensure that the Gujjar community’s concerns were heard and addressed within the government.

On the demand for a Tribal University, the Chief Minister expressed confidence that with the dedication of the trust and its people, this vision would become a reality soon.

“You should prepare a project. You should prepare a plan. I will sit with your trust when your plan is ready we will definitely do our part,” he assured.

Reflecting on his previous visit to Gurjar Desh Charitable Trust (GDCT) as Chief Minister, he acknowledged the changes over time-some positive, some challenging.

“After a long time, I have again had the opportunity to attend a function of Gurjar Desh Charitable Trust. If my recollection is correct, perhaps when I came here for the last time, I was a Chief Minister. A lot has changed since then” he said.

Paying tribute to Dr. Masood A. Choudhary, the visionary founder of GDCT, the Chief Minister praised his legacy and contributions.

“But unfortunately, the person who planted this seed, whose dream was Gurjar Desh Charitable Trust, who laid its foundation, is no longer with us. If I begin my speech without remembering Dr. Masood A. Choudhary, it would be an injustice,” he remarked.

The Chief Minister also expressed his emotional connection to the trust, recalling the close relationship his grandmother, Madr-e-Meharban, had with it.

“I want this trust to grow stronger. My grandmother had a deep bond with it. Though she is no longer with us, her name is etched here. You have honored her memory by dedicating a library in her name. I consider it my responsibility to ensure that wherever possible, the government supports this trust in fulfilling its mission,” he said.

Assuring continued government support, Omar Abdullah pledged: “I assure you that on my behalf, on behalf of all ministers, advisor, and the government-wherever you need assistance, you will always find us standing with you.”

Later, Chief Minister also visited the library block established by GDCT for research on the Gujjar-Bakkerwal community.