JAMMU, Sep 23: The Jammu and Kashmir National Panthers Party (JKNPP) Bhim paid floral tributes to Maharaja Hari Singh on his birth anniversary at his statue near Tawi Bridge, Jewel, Jammu. The programme was organised under the leadership of Vilakshan Singh, President, JKNPP Bhim, and was attended by senior party leaders, office-bearers, workers and supporters.
Speaking on the occasion, Vilakshan Singh described Maharaja Hari Singh as a progressive ruler and statesman whose contributions continue to be remembered in Jammu and Kashmir. He highlighted the Maharaja’s initiatives in education, social reform, administration, justice and economic development.
Singh recalled that Maharaja Hari Singh promoted education and social equality and supported measures including free and compulsory education for girls and widow remarriage. He also referred to steps taken during his reign against untouchability, including opening temples to members of the Dalit community. He said the establishment and strengthening of judicial and administrative institutions reflected the Maharaja’s emphasis on governance and the rule of law.
The JKNPP Bhim president also highlighted measures concerning agriculture, irrigation, flood control, handicrafts, sericulture and small industries, besides the expansion of educational institutions, scholarships and public infrastructure. He referred to the establishment of Jammu and Kashmir Bank as another milestone associated with the period.
Singh said Maharaja Hari Singh’s legacy represented what he described as inclusive and secular governance, adding that the Maharaja’s approach towards different communities remained an important part of his historical legacy.
Referring to 1947, Singh said Maharaja Hari Singh signed the Instrument of Accession, through which Jammu and Kashmir acceded to India. He also welcomed the recognition of Maharaja Hari Singh’s birth anniversary as a public holiday, describing it as an important step towards connecting younger generations with the region’s history.
Addressing concerns relating to the Dogra community, Singh called for greater unity, cooperation and constructive leadership. He said the Dogra community has a rich heritage associated with courage, sacrifice, discipline, public service and cultural traditions, while stressing the importance of preserving this heritage.
He urged young people to draw inspiration from Maharaja Hari Singh by giving priority to education, social responsibility, public service and community welfare. He also appealed to people to work towards preserving Dogra cultural identity and heritage while promoting the values of justice, equality and human dignity.
Those present on the occasion included Naresh Chib, Rajesh Gondhi, Sanju Bhagat, Rakesh Gupta, Sanjeev Verma and Rajan Jamwal, besides other party leaders, workers and supporters.