On Vilay Divas (Accession Day), BJP leader Kavinder Gupta paid tribute to Maharaja Hari Singh for his crucial role in integrating Jammu and Kashmir with India. He also stated that PoK is an integral part of India and expressed hope that the region would soon unite with India. The day is celebrated to commemorate the signing of the Instrument of Accession in 1947. The BJP leader also commented on the restoration of statehood and urged people to understand the current situation and way forward.
Maharaja Hari Singh: A Legacy in Jammu and Kashmir
Maharaja Hari Singh, the last reigning Dogra ruler of Jammu and Kashmir, played a pivotal role in the region's accession to the Indian Union in 1947. His controversial decisions and subsequent events have had a lasting impact on the region's history and politics.
Background
Hari Singh ascended to the throne in 1925. His reign was marked by modernization efforts and the suppression of political dissent. During the tumultuous partition of India in 1947, he initially declared Jammu and Kashmir an independent state. However, faced with pressure from both India and Pakistan, he signed the Instrument of Accession to India on October 26, 1947.
Accession and the Kashmir Conflict
The accession sparked the first India-Pakistan war, which resulted in the division of Kashmir into Indian- and Pakistan-administered regions. The conflict over Kashmir has continued till today, with both nations claiming the entire territory.
BJP's Accession Day Tribute
In the present context, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) celebrates October 26 as "Vilay Divas" (Accession Day) in Jammu and Kashmir. On the occasion, BJP leaders pay tribute to Maharaja Hari Singh and reiterate their commitment to the integration of Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK) into India.
FAQs
1. Why is Maharaja Hari Singh controversial?
Singh's decisions before and during the accession have been criticized by some, who argue that he did not adequately consult with the Kashmiri people and that the accession was not fair.
2. What is the status of Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir?
PoK remains a disputed territory claimed by both India and Pakistan. India maintains that the entire state of Jammu and Kashmir, including PoK, is an integral part of India, while Pakistan claims the region is under illegal occupation.
3. What is the significance of Vilay Divas?
Vilay Divas commemorates the signing of the Instrument of Accession to India, which is seen as a milestone in the region's integration into the Indian Union.
4. What is the BJP's position on Jammu and Kashmir?
The BJP supports the integration of PoK into India and advocates for the abrogation of Article 370, which granted special autonomy to Jammu and Kashmir.
5. What is the future of Jammu and Kashmir?
The future of Jammu and Kashmir remains uncertain, with the conflict over the region continuing. The resolution of the Kashmir issue is a complex and ongoing challenge that involves multiple stakeholders and geopolitical considerations.
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