Chief Minister Omar Abdullah emphasized that uplifting marginalized communities, including the Gujjar-Bakerwal population, is a governmental responsibility, not a gesture of charity. Speaking at an event organized by the Gurjar Desh Charitable Trust (GDCT), he reiterated his administration’s commitment to ensuring representation and welfare for the Gujjar community.
Omar Abdullah highlighted the challenge of limited cabinet positions after last year’s elections but noted his effort to include community representation by appointing Javed Ahmed Rana as a minister. “Despite constraints, I requested Javed Rana to join the cabinet to be your voice and address your issues,” he stated.
During the event, Javed Ahmed Rana, Minister Satish Sharma, Advisor Nasir Aslam Wani, GDCT Patron Chief Abdul Hamid Choudhary, and Chairman Arshid Ali Choudhary also spoke.
On the demand for a Tribal University, Abdullah urged GDCT to draft a detailed plan, assuring governmental support once a proposal is ready. He also paid tribute to the late Dr. Masood A. Choudhary, the founder of GDCT, acknowledging his vision and contributions to the community.
Abdullah recalled his grandmother Madr-e-Meharban’s close association with GDCT and pledged continued government support. He concluded by visiting the library block established by GDCT for research on the Gujjar-Bakerwal community.