Who was the Last King of Jammu and Kashmir?

Maharaja Hari Singh was the last king of Jammu and Kashmir before the state became a part of India following the partition of India in 1947. He ruled the princely state from 1925 until 1947, a period marked by political turmoil and external pressures that eventually led to the state's accession to India.

Background and Ruling

Sh. Maharaja Hari Singh Ji, born on September 1895, ascended to the throne on the death of his predecessor, Maharaja Pratap Singh. Under his rule, Jammu and Kashmir, a predominantly Hindu state with a significant Muslim minority, faced increasing challenges from external and internal forces. He ruled until 1947, a tumultuous year for the Indian subcontinent as it prepared to become an independent nation.

The Partition Crisis and Accession

The partition of India in 1947 caused significant upheaval, especially in areas with significant Muslim populations. Muslim tribes from Pakistan invaded Jammu and Kashmir, presenting a critical security threat to the state. Faced with this crisis, Maharaja Hari Singh made the crucial decision to seek assistance from the Indian government. In October 1947, he signed the Instrument of Accession, officially making Jammu and Kashmir a part of the newly formed Dominion of India.

Fall from Power and Post-Accession Life

Following the accession, Hari Singh’s role as the ruler of Jammu and Kashmir came to an end. He was compelled to leave the state by Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, following the insistence of Sheikh Abdullah, a prominent Kashmiri political leader. After the accession, Hari Singh was allowed to retain a privy purse for himself and his heirs. His son, Sh. Karan Singh, continued to serve as a Congress MP until the privy purse was abolished.

Final Years and Legacy

Maharaja Sir Hari Singh, a title he received for his service, passed away on April 26, 1961, leaving behind a complex legacy. He initially aimed to maintain the independence of his state but was ultimately forced to merge it with India to secure its survival. This decision had significant implications for the future of Jammu and Kashmir, shaping political and social dynamics in the region for decades to come.

While the state was established by Maharaja Gulab Singh Dogra in the early 19th century, it passed through subsequent rule, including that of Maharaja Pratap Singh. The historical period under Hari Singh saw significant changes, including the transition from a princely state to a part of India.

Conclusion

Maharaja Hari Singh's reign as the last king of Jammu and Kashmir will always be a crucial chapter in the history of this region. His decision to sign the Instrument of Accession was a defining moment, altering the course of the state's history and its relationship with India.