On This Day : Instrument of Accession 1947 – When Jammu and Kashmir Joined India
October 26, 1947: The Day Maharaja Hari Singh Signed the Instrument of Accession
October 26, 1947, marked an important moment for the future of the Indian Subcontinent. On this date, Maharaja Hari Singh, the then ruler of Jammu and Kashmir, signed the Instrument of Accession, thereby officially integrating his princely state into India.
A State Caught Between Choices
During the time of Indian Independence in 1947, the princely states were given the option to align themselves with either India or Pakistan. Jammu and Kashmir, however, proved to be different than the rest. Under the rule of a Hindu Maharaja, the State had a Muslim-majority population. Maharaja Hari Singh, wanted to maintain his State’s independence, and in fact signed a standstill agreement with Pakistan in order to keep peace, trade, and remain in his own consideration.
The Invasion That Changed Everything
The peace was short-lived. Pakistani troops attacked Kashmir in October 1947 while posing as tribesmen. The Pakistani government orchestrated and backed the invasion, which stoked fear throughout the area. Civilians were killed, towns were pillaged, and Srinagar was in grave danger. The Maharaja’s Dogra troops were unable to halt the assailants.
The Instrument of Accession
Maharaja Hari Singh had no choice but to ask Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru for assistance. Only after Jammu and Kashmir formally joined India did India consent to send its army. The Instrument of Accession was signed on October 26, 1947. As a result, India gained authority over communications, foreign policy, and defence, while the state retained control over other areas.
After being airlifted to Srinagar the following day, Indian Army soldiers were able to drive the invaders back. It was the pivotal moment when Kashmir joined India and the start of the First India-Pakistan War.
A Decision That Still Echoes
In the history of Jammu and Kashmir, that day is still regarded as one of the most significant. During India’s first test as an independent country, the Instrument of Accession 1947 not only prevented the state from collapsing but also reinforced India’s unity.
October 26, 1947, continues to serve as a reminder of the bravery, haste, and choices that molded India’s future and its map.
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