Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Aug 22: Vikramaditya Singh, MLC and grandson of Maharaja Hari Singh has questioned the stand of some political parties who selectively choose to take a pro Maharaja stand when convenient and attack him at other times.
In a statement, he said for 70 years these parties had been accusing him of being a “tyrannical and despotic” ruler and have changed their stand overnight to pander to Dogra sentiments across Jammu region. “Maharaja Hari Singh is still remembered as the ruler who brought about visionary and far sighted social reforms in the State. The public remembers and appreciates the development works undertaken during his period. He is held in high regard by the people of the State even today,” Vikramaditya said and added that it was this sentiment that some political parties were trying to exploit and twist to suit their arguments.
Vikramaditya further added that the Maharaja’s laws cannot be selectively appreciated and condemned whenever convenient. “Such laws need to be re-looked at keeping in mind current context and new ground realities. This gains further importance when you look at the divergent regional aspirations of Jammu, Ladakh and the Valley,” he said and pointed out hat Bangladeshi -Rohingya refugees illegally settled in Jammu and availing benefits from the State must be deported immediately as per Government of India orders.
Vikramaditya further asked that if Maharaja Hari Singh’s State subject laws are so sacred in J&K, then what is the hesitation in declaring his birthday as a State holiday.
It may be recalled that Vikramaditya had supported and ensured the passing of the resolution to this effect in the Legislative Council session held in February earlier this year.
The same parties that are now lauding Maharaja Hari Singh had vehemently opposed this resolution, Vikramaditya recalled.
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