Early Times Report
Jammu, Apr 14: In a significant move driven by public sentiment and historical reverence, the Yuva Rajput Sabha (YRS), under the leadership of its President Vikram Singh Vicky, officially renamed the Government Boys Higher Secondary School (GBHSS), Akhnoor, as Maharaja Hari Singh Ji Higher Secondary School. The renaming was carried out with the installation of a new signboard at the school located in Main Bazar, Akhnoor.
The event saw the participation of YRS Core Committee members, Former President Rajan Singh Happy, and local stakeholders. The initiative follows an ultimatum given by YRS during a previous public program held in Akhnoor, demanding the restoration of the school’s original name which, according to historical records and local belief, was originally named after Maharaja Hari Singh Ji.
While addressing the media, Vikram Singh Vicky strongly condemned the apathy of the administration, stating that despite repeated appeals and submission of memorandums, no action was taken by the authorities. He emphasized that the renaming reflects the sentiments of the people of Akhnoor and the broader Jammu region, who hold deep respect and emotional connection with the legacy of Maharaja Hari Singh Ji.
He also highlighted the historical significance of Akhnoor, noting that it is home to several heritage sites. “It was on the banks of the Chenab River in Akhnoor, at Jeo Pota Ghat, where Maharaja Gulab Singh Ji was coronated by Maharaja Ranjit Singh Ji on 16th June 1822, marking the beginning of the Dogra dynasty,” he added. YRS has also reiterated its demand for the installation of a statue of Maharaja Gulab Singh Ji on the banks of the Chenab River. A memorandum in this regard has already been submitted to Hon’ble Home Minister Shri Amit Shah Ji during a meeting with former YRS President Rajan Singh Happy, following the historic announcement of a holiday on 23rd September in honor of Maharaja Hari Singh Ji’s birth anniversary.
Former President Rajan Singh Happy warned the administration against any attempts to remove the newly installed signboard, stating that such actions would provoke strong public backlash. He further demanded the restoration of the original name of the historic steel bridge built by Maharaja Hari Singh Ji in 1931 and originally named Yuvraj Bridge, in honor of Dr. Karan Singh Ji. “If the administration fails to act, YRS will take necessary steps to reinstate the name themselves,” he asserted. The Yuva Rajput Sabha, along with residents of Akhnoor and surrounding areas, urge the administration to acknowledge and act upon these genuine, long-standing demands, which are deeply rooted in the cultural and historical sentiments of the region. |
