JAMMU, Oct 26: Panthers Party (Bhim), led by its President Advocate Vilakshan Singh, on Monday paid rich floral tributes to Maharaja Hari Singh on the occasion of Jammu and Kashmir Accession Day and extended its full support to the ongoing dharna organised by the All India Rajput Ekta Manch, demanding the immediate restoration of the issuance of the Dogra Certificate.
Party leaders and activists participated in the protest, expressing solidarity with the demand for safeguarding the identity, rights and interests of the Dogra community.
Addressing the gathering, Advocate Vilakshan Singh paid homage to Maharaja Hari Singh and highlighted the historical significance of October 26, 1947, when the erstwhile princely state of Jammu and Kashmir acceded to India. He said the occasion represented an important chapter in the region’s history and reflected the valour, patriotism and legacy of the Dogra community.
Turning to the issue of the Dogra Certificate, Singh asserted that its restoration was essential for protecting the legitimate interests of the Dogra community, particularly its youth. He alleged that the discontinuation of the certificate’s issuance had adversely affected the aspirations of young people in Jammu and called for immediate corrective measures.
“The Dogra Certificate provided crucial opportunities for our youth, especially in recruitment to the armed and paramilitary forces, acknowledging the martial traditions and identity of our people. Stopping its issuance to appease Kashmir-centric political forces was an injustice that dealt a direct blow to Jammu’s interests,” Singh said.
Emphasising the historical contributions of the Dogra community, he said its people had faced prolonged political neglect and systemic discrimination. He called upon Dogras to unite on a common platform to protect their cultural heritage, safeguard their rights and restore the community’s historical pride.
“The time has now arrived for all Dogras to unite on a single platform and stand shoulder to shoulder to regain our lost glory, protect our cultural heritage, and secure our legitimate rights,” he said.
Singh maintained that the party would continue to support efforts aimed at achieving regional justice, equality and the protection of Jammu’s interests. He said the observance of Accession Day should also serve as an occasion to renew the commitment to safeguarding the region’s historical legacy and addressing the concerns of its people.
The Panthers Party (Bhim) reiterated its resolve to stand with the All India Rajput Ekta Manch until its demand for the restoration of the Dogra Certificate was addressed.
Among the party leaders who joined the dharna were Naresh Chib, Balwan Singh, Sanju Bhagat, Rajan Jamwal and others.
The programme concluded with a renewed call for unity among the Dogra community and the preservation of its cultural identity, heritage and legitimate rights.