- Pays tribute to Maharaja Hari Singh Ji’s historic decision; Highlights Ladakh’s progress post-Article 370 abrogation
Jammu, 26 October 2025 | The Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Kavinder Gupta, emphasised that Accession Day is a celebration of Jammu and Kashmir’s eternal bond with India, a day that reminds every citizen of the farsighted leadership, patriotism, and courage of Maharaja Hari Singh Ji, whose historic decision ensured that Jammu and Kashmir became an inseparable part of Bharat.
“On this sacred day, we bow in reverence to Maharaja Hari Singh Ji — a visionary monarch and true nationalist — whose determination and love for his people guided Jammu and Kashmir towards unity, progress, and integration,” the Lt Governor said while addressing the ‘Adhivilan Utsav – 2025’ organised by Samadhaan Foundation in Jammu to mark Accession Day.
The Lt Governor described Maharaja Hari Singh Ji as a reformer, moderniser, and symbol of India’s unity, who rose above political compulsions to act in the best interest of his people and the nation. “His decision to sign the Instrument of Accession was not merely a political act but a pledge to uphold India’s civilisational and cultural ethos. It was an affirmation that Jammu and Kashmir’s destiny lies with India,” he added.
Recalling the Maharaja’s remarkable contributions, the Lt Governor said that his reign laid the foundation of a modern and progressive Jammu and Kashmir. “He introduced landmark reforms in education, justice, and social welfare, promoted women’s empowerment, abolished child marriage, and worked for equality and justice at a time when such measures were rare,” he noted.
Quoting former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, the Lt Governor said that India is not merely a piece of land, but a living entity that we revere as Bharat Mata. He said that the accession of Jammu and Kashmir completed the nation’s spiritual and civilizational unity, fulfilling the idea of Bharat as a living motherland, not just a geographical entity. “The Instrument of Accession signed by Maharaja Hari Singh Ji was an act of faith — a declaration that Jammu and Kashmir would always remain an inseparable part of India’s soul,” he said.
Highlighting the historical neglect faced by Ladakh, the Lt Governor highlighted that for decades, the people of Ladakh faced discrimination and developmental deprivation despite their immense contribution to national unity and security. “For years, Ladakh remained ignored in policy priorities, its people struggling for representation and recognition,” he said.
He emphasised that this ended under Prime Minister Modi, who ensured justice for Ladakh through Article 370’s abrogation and its creation as a Union Territory. “This step corrected a long injustice and gave Ladakh the chance for progress,” he said.
The Lt Governor said that unprecedented development is now being witnessed in Ladakh, with projects worth thousands of crores underway in infrastructure, tourism, renewable energy, and education sectors. “The completion of the world-class Zojila Tunnel project will further transform connectivity, boost tourism, and strengthen economic growth in the region,” he said, adding that Ladakh is emerging as a model of sustainable development and ecological balance.
The Lt Governor reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to an ‘Akhand Bharat’ where every region prospers. “From Ladakh to Jammu and Kashmir, we are united by shared history and national spirit. The dream of a united Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh is now taking shape under Prime Minister Modi,” he said.
Shri Kavinder Gupta also commended the Samadhaan Foundation for organizing Adhivilan Utsav and said such events play a vital role in reconnecting the younger generation with the region’s glorious Dogra legacy. “This celebration is not only about remembering our history but also about inspiring the youth to build the future with the same sense of pride and dedication,” he said.
Concluding his address, the Lt Governor said, “Maharaja Hari Singh Ji’s decision of accession was not just a historical event — it was a declaration of faith in India’s unity. Let us pledge to uphold his legacy by making Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh symbols of peace, development, and harmony.”
During the programme, artists from the Jammu & Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture & Languages also presented a captivating cultural performance celebrating Dogra Heritage, art, and culture.
Among others who addressed the programme were Shri Pawan Sharma, Chairperson, Samadhaan Foundation; MLA Shri Yudhvir Sethi; Dr. Meenakshi Kilam; and Bhai Sh. Kusum Hindu Ji and members of civil society were also present.
