Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Apr 26: Bhartiya Dalit Sahatiya Akedemi (BDSA) today released a book on the life and contributions of noted dalit leader Mahasha Nahar Singh at its headquarters in Roop Nagar, with its president B R Kundal (IAS, Retired) formally unveiling the publication in the presence of intellectuals, writers and social activists.
The book, originally authored in Urdu by noted writer S N Dogra, has been translated into Hindi by eminent author and retired engineer Rajesh Angural and Karm Chand Satia, aiming to make the work accessible to a wider readership. The publication highlights the life, struggles and achievements of Mahasha Nahar Singh, a two-time member of the J&K Legislative Assembly in 1951 and 1957, who was widely regarded as a dedicated leader of the Scheduled Castes.
The release function was held alongside a joint meeting of the executive and advisory committees of the Academy, chaired by B R Kundal. During the meeting, members reviewed key organizational issues, including the ongoing membership drive and progress in distributing literary works comprising writings, speeches and academic contributions, including theses submitted by Dr B R Ambedkar.
Speaking on the occasion, Kundal described Mahasha Nahar Singh as a pioneer of the dalit movement in J&K. He recalled Singh’s role in the historic Keer Pind Movement, terming it an important yet under-documented phase that symbolized grassroots resistance against caste-based marginalization and a growing assertion for dignity and rights.
Speakers also highlighted Singh’s association with the freedom struggle and his role in strengthening democratic institutions in the erstwhile state. His contributions included founding the Harijan Mandal of J&K, which campaigned for the abolition of forced labour, land rights for dalits, and access to education through scholarships and welfare initiatives.
Prominent author H R Phounsa emphasized the need to document such overlooked figures for future generations. Among others present were Hemraj Phounsa, P L Bhushan, Nagarmal, S D Thappa, Laj Ram, Vijay Bhagat, K C Satia, Harbans Lal and Dr Rakesh Kumar Atri.
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