Governor unveils statue of Wazir Ram Singh

Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla unveiled the statue of prominent freedom fighter Wazir Ram Singh Pathania at a ceremony held on the premises of the Ram Singh Pathania Memorial in Nurpur on Monday. Wazir Ram Singh, who hailed from Bassa Waziran village, is remembered for leading the first organised armed revolt against the British rule in India.

Presiding over the event, the Governor praised Pathania’s courage and patriotism, emphasising that his legacy remains a source of inspiration for generations.

Wazir Ram Singh, who hailed from Bassa Waziran village, is remembered for leading the first organised armed revolt against the British rule in India

Governor Shukla highlighted that Pathania’s name is etched in history as a symbol of determination and bravery. “Today, we not only pay tribute to a great freedom fighter but also revive his legacy that continues to inspire many,” Shukla stated.

The Governor explained that Wazir Ram Singh Pathania’s contribution to India’s freedom struggle predated the 1857 revolt. In 1848, he led an uprising in the hilly regions against British forces, particularly remembered for the Battle of Shahpur. Despite leading a small group of companions, he managed to shake the foundations of the British Empire.

Governor Shukla recounted how the British eventually arrested Pathania and sentenced him to life imprisonment, sending him to Kalapani, and later Rangoon, where he endured severe hardships. Pathania attained martyrdom on November 11, 1849, at the young age of 24. “His and his companions’ sacrifices laid the cornerstone for India’s freedom struggle, setting the stage for subsequent movements that led to India’s independence,” Shukla said.

He added that the newly unveiled statue would not only serve as a reminder of Wazir Ram Singh Pathania’s indomitable spirit but also inspire future generations to contribute to the nation’s progress. “His legacy will live in our hearts forever,” Shukla concluded.

Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) leader Indresh Kumar, who delivered the keynote speech, expressed that the installation of the statue in Nurpur would instill patriotism in the youth and enhance the region’s identity. Kumar also touched on the Waqf Board controversy, criticizing the board for its lack of societal contribution.

The event was chaired by former Director General of the Indian Coast Guard, Virender Singh Pathania, who welcomed the chief guest. Veer Singh, chairman of the Wazir Ram Singh Pathania Memorial Committee, honoured Governor Shukla with a shawl, cap and memento.

The ceremony was attended by notable political figures, including MPs Rajiv Bhardwaj (Lok Sabha) and Indu Goswami (Rajya Sabha), MLAs Ranveer Singh Nikka, Hansraj, and Janak Raj, former minister Rakesh Pathania, former MP Kishan Kapoor, and former MLAs Rita Dhima, Arjun Thakur, and Rajesh Thakur.