Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha stated on Monday that Jammu and Kashmir's history would have been "entirely different" if Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel had been given full responsibility for its integration in 1947. Sinha made these remarks while participating in the 'Sardar@150 Unity March' in Vadodara, Gujarat, which commemorated Sardar Patel's 150th birth anniversary and highlighted his crucial role in unifying India.
Addressing a gathering on the theme of "Kashmir, Hyderabad and Sardar," Sinha emphasized Patel's effective leadership in integrating princely states, particularly Hyderabad, attributing it to his "clarity of purpose and firmness of action," qualities that were essential in creating a unified India. He argued that Patel's decisive approach and opposition to Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru's handling of the Jammu and Kashmir issue, including the decision to involve the United Nations, could have significantly altered the region's trajectory. Sinha noted that Patel was firmly against ceding any territory of Jammu and Kashmir to Pakistan.
Sinha described Sardar Patel as the "architect of modern India," whose dedication to unity, equality, and social justice continues to shape the nation's socio-political structure. He added that Patel embodied "self-confidence, self-respect and moral courage," which remain vital for India's aspirations for stability and development.
Furthermore, Sinha connected Patel's legacy to contemporary governance, asserting that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is realizing Patel's vision. He stated that the abrogation of Article 370 fulfilled the long-held national desire for "one flag, one constitution and one leader". Sinha also highlighted various central government initiatives like "One Nation, One Tax," "One Nation, One Ration Card," and the National Education Policy as transformative measures aimed at strengthening the country's institutional and cultural unity.
Despite not directly overseeing Jammu and Kashmir's integration, Sardar Patel ensured that it remained an integral part of India. From the outset, Patel maintained that not an inch of Jammu and Kashmir would be given to Pakistan.
Sinha called upon the younger generation to reinforce three "critical pillars" of national cohesion: shared values, shared identity, and a common purpose, to sustain India's progress. The 'Sardar@150 Unity March,' which began at Sardar Patel's family home in Karamsad, will cover approximately 190 km over 11 days and conclude at the Statue of Unity on December 6. The event aims to reconnect young Indians with the nation's foundational narrative of integration and federal harmony.
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, India's first Deputy Prime Minister, played a crucial role in integrating 562 princely states into the Indian Union. His efforts, marked by tact, vision, and statesmanship, laid the foundation for a strong and united India. Patel's approach involved negotiation, persuasion, and, when necessary, decisive action to ensure the integration of these states. V.P. Menon, Patel's aide, was instrumental in drafting the Instrument of Accession, which enabled the princely states to join India.
