Prof. Bhim Singh: The Unwavering Torchbearer of Dogra Identity

 [Prof. Bhim Singh: The Unwavering Torchbearer of Dogra Identity]


Professor Bhim Singh was not just a politician; he was a visionary who provided a strong political front for the Dogras of Jammu and Kashmir through the "Jammu and Kashmir National Panthers Party (JKNPP)". Unlike many, he was never driven by power or personal gains. His only ambition was to uplift the Dogras and give them a distinct political voice.  


With this noble intent, he handed over the reins of JKNPP to his nephews, Balwant Singh Mankotia and Harsh Dev Singh . Under his guidance, both became MLAs, and Harsh Dev even rose to the position of "Education Minister". In an unparalleled act of selflessness, Prof. Bhim Singh voluntarily surrendered his own MLA seat, hoping that his nephews would carry forward his mission with the same dedication.


But, power corrupted their path.

- Balwant Singh Mankotia abandoned the party and joined BJP. 

- Harsh Dev Singh left JKNPP, joined AAP, then returned, leading to a split in JKNPP, ultimately causing the party to lose its symbol.


- In the recent J&K Assembly elections, Harsh Dev Singh lost his seat, contesting with the support of NC and Congress—an alliance that Bhim Singh would have never envisioned.


These actions dismantled the legacy of Bhim Singh, a man who was much more than a politician. He was a renowned lawyer, author, historian, and activist who had global recognition, even sharing acquaintances with world leaders like 'Saddam Hussein'.


Today, as we reflect on the political history of Jammu and Kashmir, we must remember Professor Bhim Singh as a man of principles, vision, and sacrifice.His legacy should not be judged by the failures of those who succeeded him but by the ideals he stood for. 

JKNPP may have fractured, but his contributions to Dogra identity and regional politics remain unparalleled.


                             ✍️ Akshay Thakur (A Political Analyst)

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