02/01/1920 – 02/05/2006

Standing neither too tall nor too short, clad in a white double vest and a full-sleeved shirt, adorned with a black coat and leather shoes, and sporting gold-colored lover’s spectacles, Kunhi Pakki Haji commanded attention as he walked the streets of Mangalore with regal grace. The distinct tick…tick…sound of his boots announced his presence to all around him, signaling the arrival of a true leader.

Kunhi Pakki Haji, renowned labor leader of the district, possessed a personality and majesty that demanded respect. His royal stride and dignified demeanor left a lasting impression on all who encountered him. In a region filled with notable Beary leaders, Kunhi Pakki Haji stood out for his dedication to the welfare of workers in the labor field, making him a figure to be remembered and revered.

In 1960, Mangalore stood as a prominent commercial hub, both nationally and internationally. The bustling old port area teemed with various commercial activities, employing thousands of workers. Tile factories dotted the landscape, while fishing remained a primary occupation. Import-export businesses flourished, albeit amidst exploitation by capitalists who treated workers like serfs.

One particularly egregious practice of the time was the “moop system,” where a group of workers shared a single moop, which exacted a portion of their labor. C. Kunhi Pakki Haji recognized the injustice inherent in this system and took up the cause of liberating workers from such exploitation. In 1962, he founded the “Swatantra Thoilali Union” (STU) to organize and advocate for workers’ rights.

Facing staunch opposition from business interests and enduring numerous police cases and crackdowns, Kunhi Pakki Haji persevered in his fight. Through strikes and protests, he stood firm, undeterred by adversity. Finally, in 1964, the historic victory was achieved as the oppressive moop system was abolished, marking a significant triumph for workers’ rights.

In the ensuing years, the demand for bonuses for workers gained momentum. Reluctant businessmen, who had previously stifled workers’ voices, eventually yielded to the pressure from the “STU” led by Kunhi Pakki Haji. A historic agreement was reached wherein the workers were granted “ex gratia” payments instead of bonuses, fulfilling a long-standing aspiration of the labor force.

The year 1974 marked another milestone in the labor movement, with the STU organizing a state-level labor conference in collaboration with the INTUC (Indian National Trade Union Congress) at the Mangalore Town Hall. The presence of the Labor Minister H. Ranganath added significance to the event. Subsequently, the STU organization merged into the INTUC labor organization, further solidifying the cause of workers’ rights.

Kunhi Pakki Haji, born on January 2, 1920, in Kandaka, Mangalore, was the son of the affluent Mohammad-Ashiamma couple. Despite his prosperity, he remained deeply committed to philanthropy, distributing rice grown on his 100-acre agricultural land in Arlapada, Bantwala taluk, to the needy throughout the year. Additionally, he dedicated one and a half acres of his land in Arla Bagu to establish a mosque, madrasa, and shrine, serving as the founding president of the mosque until his passing. He also held the position of President at the Poonjalakatta Masjid.

In 1968, Mangalore was engulfed in a devastating communal riot, resulting in significant loss of life and property. To address the aftermath and restore peace and harmony, the Central Muslim Committee was formed, comprising six founder members. Among them were prominent figures such as Muhammad Kamal and M.C. Ahmed, both distinguished lawyers of the time, along with labor leader C. Kunhi Pakki Haji, educator Abdul Razak Haji, businessman T.A.K.A. Assadi, and Moidin Kunhi of Yenepoya.

Moidin Kunhi’s generous donation of ten thousand rupees served as the initial capital for the establishment of the committee. C. Kunhi Pakki Haji played a pivotal role in the committee’s operations, serving as its Vice-President for many years. Additionally, he held the position of Vice-President at the Badria Education Institute. Known for his commitment to social causes, he was always ready to attend meetings, even in the midst of the night during times of social crisis.

C. Kunhi Pakki’s political career was marked by notable achievements and contributions. He began his journey in politics at a young age and quickly rose to prominence. Serving as the President of the Dakshina Kannada District Unit of the Muslim League and later as Vice-President of the Madras State Muslim League. The state conference of the Muslim League Party held under his leadership at Nehru Maidan, Mangalore in 1964 stands as a testament to his organizational skills and leadership.

Subsequently, he transitioned to the Congress Party, where he continued to make valuable contributions. As Vice President of the Dakshina Kannada District Congress Party, he brought his experience and insights to further the party’s objectives.

Additionally, C. Kunhi Pakki Haji’s involvement in Raji Panchayat showcased his ability to resolve complex disputes amicably, earning him respect and admiration in the district. Throughout his 86 years of life, he remained dedicated to the prosperity of the community and society at large.

Following his passing on May 2, 2006, C. Kunhi Pakki Haji left behind his wife Beefatumma, five sons, and four daughters. His eldest son, Haji C. Muhammad (Puthubava Haji), is a well-known businessman and social worker, currently serving as the Vice-President of the Muslim Central Committee. Another son, Haji CA Rahim, has made significant contributions as a labor and social leader, holding positions such as Vice-President of the state unit of INTUC and the Mangalore Merchants Association. As the founder president, he continues to serve as the president today, carrying forward his father’s legacy of service and dedication.