14 March - Wazir Mohammad Hakla Poonchi 1915

 

Wazir Mohammad Hakla Poonchi is known for his contributions as a prominent Gujjar leader and social activist in the Jammu and Kashmir region of India. His work focuses primarily on the welfare and upliftment of the Gujjar and Bakerwal communities. Here are some key details about his life and contributions:

Early Life

• Birth: Wazir Mohammad Hakla Poonchi was born on 14 March 1915 in the Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir.
• Community Background: He belongs to the Gujjar community, a significant ethnic group in the region known for their pastoral lifestyle.

Contributions and Activism

• Social Activism: Hakla Poonchi has been actively involved in advocating for the rights and development of the Gujjar and Bakerwal communities. He has worked towards their educational, economic, and social upliftment.
• Political Involvement: He has been a vocal advocate for the political representation of the Gujjar community, striving to ensure they have a voice in the legislative and administrative processes.
• Education: Recognizing the importance of education in empowering marginalized communities, Hakla Poonchi has been instrumental in promoting educational initiatives among the Gujjars and Bakerwals.
• Cultural Preservation: He has also worked towards preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of the Gujjar community, including their language, traditions, and customs.

Recognition and Legacy

• Leadership: Wazir Mohammad Hakla Poonchi is widely respected as a leader and spokesperson for the Gujjar community in Jammu and Kashmir. His efforts have brought attention to the issues faced by these communities and have led to significant strides in their development.
• Advocacy for Rights: Through his persistent advocacy, he has played a crucial role in highlighting the needs and aspirations of the Gujjars and Bakerwals, both at the regional and national levels.

Wazir Mohammad Hakla Poonchi's dedication to the welfare of his community and his efforts to secure their rights and development have made him a notable figure in the socio-political landscape of Jammu and Kashmir.

The Department of Posts issued a commemorative postage stamp on Choudhary Wazir Mohd Hakla, recognizing his fight for national unity and harmony in the region of Jammu & Kashmir. His enduring legacy as a leader and advocate for communal harmony, national integration, and the upliftment of the Gujjar community remains an inspiration for future generations.