DLP Report
PESHAWAR
Chairman of the World Pashto Jirga Professor Asir Mangal has said that Ajmal Khattak conveyed a conscious message of freedom, independence and awareness to the nation through his literary, journalistic and political contributions.
He expressed these views while addressing a ceremony organized to celebrate the birth century of progressive poet and politician Ajmal Khattak.
The ceremony was organized by the World Pashto Jirga at the hujra of Abdul Waris Khan in Shah Qabool Bazaar, Dabgari, Peshawar.
Prominent progressive writer, poet and journalist Noor Al-Bishr Naveed played a pivotal role in the success of the celebration through his dedication and guidance.
The ceremony comprised two sessions. In the cultural session, noted artist Fayyaz Khan Kheshgi recited selected poems of Ajmal Khattak Baba.
Several prominent political leaders, intellectuals and literary figures addressed the event, including Haji Ghulam Ahmed Bilour, Mian Iftikhar Hussain, Afrasiab Khattak, senior journalist Shamim Shahid, distinguished writer and columnist Saadullah Jan Barq, General Secretary of the International Pashto Jirga Faridun Khan, Patron-in-Chief Zubair Khan, former police officer Akhtar Ali Shah, former police officer and writer Sheikh Shaukat Hayat, and renowned academic Professor Dr. Yasin Iqbal.
Speakers highlighted that Ajmal Khattak stood for humanity, tolerance and resistance against oppression. Inspired by the legacy of Khushal Khan Khattak, he worked closely with Khan Abdul Wali Khan and made remarkable sacrifices through his association with Bacha Khan’s Khudai Khidmatgar movement, enduring imprisonment and exile.
Haji Ghulam Ahmed Bilour recalled Khattak as a long-time political companion and a trend-setter who made invaluable sacrifices for the Pashtun nation, noting that “such personalities are born after long intervals.”
Mian Iftikhar Hussain spoke extensively about Khattak’s political journey and shared personal memories, describing him as “an era unto himself” and a steadfast fighter against exploitation.
Afrasiab Khattak reflected on Ajmal Khattak’s years in exile in Afghanistan and praised the World Pashto Jirga for honouring his legacy. He said that commemorating national leaders like Ajmal Khattak keeps political awareness and the struggle for freedom alive among the younger generation.
