Uplifting marginalised communities like Gujjars, Bakerwals our duty: Omar

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Sunday emphasised that uplifting marginalised communities like Gujjars and Bakerwal was not an act of favour but a fundamental duty of the Jammu and Kashmir government.

The Chief Minister said 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.

“After the election, we had to think about the cabinet ministers. However, there was very little scope. I requested 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 (GDST) in his honour on Sunday.

He 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 Gurjar Trust and its people, this vision would become a reality soon. “You should prepare a plan. I will sit with you when your plan is ready and we will definitely do our part,” he assured.

Reflecting on his previous visit to 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, referring to his first stint from 2009 to 2014.

Abdullah 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 honoured 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.

Later, the chief minister also visited the library block established by the trust for research on the Gujjar-Bakerwal community.