States » NorthPosted at: Oct 19 2026 11:25PM


J&K: HP Governor emphasises need to preserve Maharaja Hari Singh’s legacy

Jammu, Oct 19 (UNI) Himachal Pradesh Governor Kavinder Gupta today called for an objective, fact-based and comprehensive study of Jammu and Kashmir’s history, emphasising that the contributions of its historical figures must be assessed in the light of original records, historical evidence and the circumstances prevailing at the time.
He underscored the need to preserve the region’s rich heritage and ensure that future generations receive an accurate understanding of its past.
The Governor was speaking at the book release function of 'The Betrayal of Kashmir: Key Issues' authored by Brigadier Dhiman, at Jammu Club, Jammu.
He said that Maharaja Hari Singh occupies a significant place in the history of Jammu and Kashmir. As the last ruling Maharaja of the erstwhile princely state, his decision to sign the Instrument of Accession to India on October 26, 1947, during a grave crisis marked a defining moment in the region’s history.
The Maharaja’s role and decisions, he said, must be understood in their proper historical context, free from selective interpretations.
Referring to the frequent controversies surrounding the history of Jammu and Kashmir, the Governor observed that the region’s past had often been subjected to conflicting narratives, selective accounts and, at times, distorted presentation of facts.
He expressed concern that historical truths, including the role of Maharaja Hari Singh, had sometimes been misrepresented or taken out of context. He emphasised that researchers, historians and scholars have a vital responsibility to bring authenticated facts before the public, dispel misconceptions and build trust through credible scholarship.
He said that historical research must be guided by intellectual honesty and evidence rather than preconceived positions, so that the younger generation can develop an informed understanding of the region’s past.
Paying tribute to Brigadier Rajinder Singh, the Governor described his courage and supreme sacrifice during the 1947 invasion as an enduring symbol of patriotism and duty.
Brigadier Rajinder Singh and his men fought valiantly against the invading forces despite severe constraints, buying crucial time for the defence of Jammu and Kashmir. Their sacrifice, he said, represents a proud chapter in the nation’s military history and deserves wider recognition among younger generations.
The Governor also referred to the sacrifice of thousands of soldiers and civilians who laid down their lives for the country’s unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Highlighting the importance of national symbols, Gupta said that the history of Vande Mataram also deserved due recognition. He observed that national symbols and patriotic traditions must be understood in their historical context and accorded the respect they merit.
He also applauded the Prime Minister Narendra Modi for giving renewed national prominence to Vande Mataram and strengthening public engagement with India’s freedom struggle and patriotic heritage.
The Governor announced that a Maharaja Hari Singh Chair would be established in state universities of Himachal Pradesh to promote research, academic engagement and a deeper understanding of the Maharaja’s life, contributions and historical legacy.
Recalling his tenure as Mayor of Jammu, Gupta said that he had taken initiatives to install statues of eminent national and historical personalities, including Maharaja Hari Singh, Swami Vivekananda, Baba Banda Singh Bahadur and former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
He emphasised that commemorating such figures was not merely symbolic but an important means of connecting future generations with their heritage.
The Governor appreciated the efforts of the descendants of Maharaja Hari Singh in preserving and promoting his legacy.
The Governor reiterated that preserving historical truth was a collective responsibility and called upon scholars, educational institutions and society to ensure that the sacrifices of national heroes and the region’s rich historical legacy were documented accurately and passed on to future generations.
Maj Gen Goverdhan Singh Jamwal, in his address, emphasised the importance of presenting the history of Jammu and Kashmir through authentic records, factual evidence and first-hand experiences.
UNI VBH RN
Tags: #J&K: HP Governor emphasises need to preserve Maharaja Hari Singh’s legacy
More News

Haryana plans Rs 188-crore museum development at ancient Rakhigarhi site

20 Oct 2026 | 12:04 AM

Hansi, Oct 19 (UNI) Haryana plans an estimated Rs 188-crore next phase of development for the museum and interpretation centre at Rakhigarhi, Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini said today, outlining efforts to strengthen archaeological research, attract tourists and secure international recognition for the ancient settlement.

see more..

BJP alleges growing discontent within Congress, claims public anger against Himachal government rising

20 Oct 2026 | 12:02 AM

Shimla, Oct 19 (UNI) BJP Himachal Pradesh president Rajiv Bindal on Monday alleged growing discontent and internal contradictions within the Congress, claiming that public resentment against the Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu-led government was increasing across the state.

see more..

Rs 5-cr Rajiv Gandhi Day-Boarding School to come up in Rait: Pathania

19 Oct 2026 | 11:38 PM

Shahpur (Kangra), Oct 19 (UNI) Himachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly Deputy Chief Whip, Kewal Singh Pathania, today laid the foundation stone of a Rajiv Gandhi Day-Boarding School building, to be constructed at a cost of Rs 5 crore, at Government Senior Secondary School, Rait, in Kangra district.

see more..

14,000 devotees visit Kangra’s Bajreshwari Temple during Sharad Navratri

19 Oct 2026 | 11:28 PM

Kangra, Oct 19 (UNI) Around 14,000 devotees thronged the revered Shri Bajreshwari Temple in Kangra on Ashtami during Sharad Navratri to seek the blessings of Goddess Bajreshwari, as long queues formed from early morning amid a heavy rush of pilgrims from Himachal Pradesh and neighbouring states.

see more..

ACB files chargesheet against postal assistant in a 2025 bribery case

19 Oct 2026 | 11:25 PM

Srinagar, Oct 19 (UNI) The Jammu and Kashmir Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) on Monday filed a chargesheet against a Postal Assistant posted at Sub Post Office Bandipora for allegedly demanding and accepting a bribe of Rs 6,500 for the release of a subsidy under the Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP).

see more..