Miangul Jahanzeb, the Ruler of Swat had great concern for the state employees. He expected the people of Swat and dependencies should respect the State servants, and be caring and courteous to them. Here I quote an example which shows how much he was concerned for the well being of the State officials. This happened very much before my joining the State P.W.D. A bridge was being constructed by the State Malatia, on Chakesar Khwarh to connect the village to the main road. A Subedar from the State P.W.D, then headed by Captain Nakhwad, was stationed at the site of the bridge for supervision. His name was Abdul Wahid from Manglawar village. As a routine, the supply contractor had installed a kitchen at the ‘Sabar Shah Morh’, to feed the soldiers and officials. Wali Sahib used to visit the far flung areas at least once a year, and proper Swat on daily schedule in the evenings. So, he came to Chakesar, inspected the completed arch bridge and then shook hands with the elders of the village and the Hakim. Then he suddenly and unexpectedly asked the Subedar how he had his lodging and boarding. He replied that he had faced no problem as the State provided him and the soldiers good food and camp facilities. On reply to a question by the Wali Sahib, if he was ever invited by the local elders, he said ‘No’. Wali Sahib was astonished as to how it was possible when the people of Chakesar in general and the Khans of the four tribes specially were famous for hospitality. They are traditionally supposed to welcome any traveler guests en-route passing the village. Some Khans were searching for every way fairers and took them to their Hujras to feed them. Anyhow, Wali Sahib was very much displeased at this unexpected manner from such noble Khans and returned to the capital , without accepting the lunch prepared by the local Khans.
Some three years later , I was in Chakesar to supervise the construction of a ten bedded hospital including an operation theater. The local Khans were very kind and careful, though I lived with my relative who was incharge of the Dispensary. His name was Dr. Sultan Mohammad and belonged to a noble family of Saidu Sharif. Wali Sahib came to Chakesar to inspect the under construction hospital. He was pleased with my performance and then took me to the school hall where tea was arranged and very kindly asked me to set on the chair opposite to him.
Dear readers, such was our benign Ruler.
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