A lifelong crusader for Education, Nationalism

Prof R D Singh

The life of Late Choudhary Mohd Shafi Haqla stands as a remarkable chapter in the history of social awakening, educational reform, and patriotic commitment in the Pir Panjal region of Jammu and Kashmir. Born in 1939 in the remote village of Kurhad in District Rajouri, he emerged as one of the most respected educationists, nationalist voices, and social reformers of his time. His life was defined by sacrifice, courage, honesty, and an unwavering dedication to public service.

At a time when vast areas of Rajouri district remained socially and educationally neglected, Late Mohd Shafi Haqla chose not to pursue personal comfort or professional prestige, but instead devoted himself entirely to the upliftment of poor, marginalized, and backward communities living in far-flung mountainous regions such as Peeri, Panihad, Ujhan, and adjoining tribal belts.

In 1960, he was appointed as a News Announcer at Radio Kashmir, a position considered highly prestigious during that era. The appointment promised stability, social status, and a secure future. However, in a decision that reflected his extraordinary commitment towards society, he voluntarily resigned from the post within merely 28 days. For him, the call of social service and educational reform was far greater than personal ambition. He believed deeply that education was the foundation of empowerment and the strongest weapon against poverty, ignorance, exploitation, and social backwardness.

Following his resignation, Late Mohd Shafi Haqla embarked upon a lifelong mission to spread educational awareness among people living in inaccessible and underdeveloped regions where literacy rates were alarmingly low. During those decades, sending children to school was not considered essential in many rural and tribal communities due to poverty, migration, and lack of awareness. Yet, he remained determined to change this reality.

With unmatched dedication, he travelled tirelessly from village to village, often on foot across rugged mountainous terrain, personally meeting families and motivating parents to educate their children. His compassion for nomadic and tribal communities was particularly noteworthy. He even accompanied migrating families during seasonal movements to ensure that children from nomadic backgrounds remained connected to education despite difficult circumstances.

His relentless efforts gradually ignited a silent educational revolution in the region. Hundreds of students inspired and supported by him later rose to prominent positions as doctors, engineers, teachers, professors, administrators, officers, and professionals serving society across the country. For countless poor families, education became a pathway towards dignity, stability, and social mobility because of his vision and perseverance.

Beyond education, Late Mohd Shafi Haqla also played a significant role in the socio-economic development of remote areas of Rajouri district. He consistently advocated for better infrastructure and public facilities in neglected villages, including schools, roads, electricity, drinking water schemes, healthcare services, and employment opportunities. His leadership gave voice to the concerns of remote communities that had remained unheard for decades.

Perhaps the most defining phase of his life came during the turbulent militancy period of the 1990s in Jammu and Kashmir. At a time when fear, violence, and uncertainty had engulfed the region, Late Mohd Shafi Haqla stood courageously against separatist ideology and anti-national forces. Despite facing repeated threats, intimidation, harassment, and even torture by militants, he refused to compromise on his nationalist beliefs, constitutional values, and loyalty towards the nation.

His fearless stand during those difficult years earned him immense admiration and respect among the people of the region. He became widely regarded as a symbol of patriotism, courage, integrity, and unwavering nationalism in the Pir Panjal belt. Even under severe pressure, he continued advocating peace, unity, communal harmony, and national integration, proving that true leadership reveals itself most clearly in times of crisis.

Late Mohd Shafi Haqla was also a staunch believer in secularism and social harmony. Throughout his life, he promoted brotherhood, coexistence, and equality among people of all religions and communities. He treated every individual with dignity and respect irrespective of caste, creed, or background. His inclusive vision and humane approach earned him affection and admiration across social and religious lines.

Those who knew him personally remember him as a man of exceptional simplicity, discipline, honesty, and selflessness. He neither sought political power nor personal wealth. Instead, he quietly dedicated his entire life to the welfare of society and future generations. His integrity, humility, and commitment to humanity made him a deeply respected figure among people from all walks of life.

Today, years after his passing, the legacy of Late Choudhary Mohd Shafi Haqla continues to live on through the educated generations he inspired, the institutions he strengthened, the values he upheld, and the countless lives he transformed. His extraordinary contribution towards education, social reform, communal harmony, rural development, and nationalism remains an enduring source of inspiration for present and future generations.

In an era where selfless public service has become increasingly rare, the life of Late Choudhary Mohd Shafi Haqla serves as a shining example of how one determined individual, guided by vision, patriotism, and compassion, can transform an entire society and leave behind a legacy that time can never erase.