Srinagar, Mar 07: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) National General Secretary and Jammu and Kashmir in-charge, Tarun Chugh on Friday condemned the comments made by the National Conference leaders regarding the last ruler of the erstwhile state, Maharaja Hari Singh.
Chugh in a statement said, “The contribution of the great ruler of Jammu and Kashmir, Maharaja Hari Singh Ji is an integral part of the region’s culture, history and identity. Not only did he play a significant role in the progress of the state, but he also made a historic contribution to its integration with the Indian Republic.”
The party is committed to upholding the rich legacy of Maharaja, a leader whose contributions to Jammu and Kashmir remain unparalleled, he said.
The BJP leader said Maharaja Hari Singh was not merely a ruler but a visionary leader who spearheaded progressive reforms, modernisation and inclusive governance. His contributions to education, healthcare, and administration played a pivotal role in shaping Jammu and Kashmir’s socio-economic landscape, he said.
“It is unfortunate that some individuals, driven by political selfishness and narrow-mindedness, continue to insult Maharaja Hari Singh Ji. Such attacks are not just an affront to the identity of Jammu and Kashmir but also an attempt to hurt the sentiments of millions who revere the Maharaja as their ideal,” he added.
Chugh said Maharaja Hari Singh introduced landmark reforms that safeguarded the rights of marginalised communities and promoted social justice. “His secular outlook fostered communal harmony in the region. Any attempt to malign his legacy is unacceptable and must be retracted immediately,” he asserted.
Expressing deep disappointment, the BJP leader urged political leaders to exercise caution and responsibility when commenting on historical figures. He called upon Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and his party National Conference to issue a clarification and retract the remarks, saying such statements only create unnecessary controversy and hurt public sentiments.
Chugh said the BJP is committed to preserving and honouring the contributions of historical leaders who played a crucial role in shaping Jammu and Kashmir’s identity.
Speaking on the July 13, 1931, incident, Chugh reaffirmed the BJP’s stance, calling it a “black day and a day of betrayal”. The party would continue to uphold the truth of history and counter any attempts to distort it,” he said.
