Dogra Rule in Jammu and Kashmir (1846–1947)
The Dogra dynasty ruled Jammu and Kashmir from 1846 to 1947, founded by Maharaja Gulab Singh after the Treaty of Amritsar. This period saw territorial expansion, administrative reforms, and socio-economic changes but also witnessed public discontent and movements.
🧭 Founding of Dogra Rule – Treaty of Amritsar (1846)
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Signed on 16 March 1846 between the British East India Company and Maharaja Gulab Singh.
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British sold Kashmir to Gulab Singh for 75 lakh rupees.
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Gulab Singh became the independent Maharaja of Jammu and Kashmir.
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This marked the beginning of Dogra Rule.
👑 Dogra Rulers and Their Contributions
1. Maharaja Gulab Singh (1846–1857)
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Founder of Dogra dynasty.
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A former general of Ranjit Singh's army.
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Extended territory to Ladakh, Baltistan, and Gilgit.
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Known for strong military leadership.
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Faced challenges in integrating Kashmir Valley.
🔹 Achievements:
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Laid the foundation of a unified J&K State.
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Efficient and strong administrative control.
2. Maharaja Ranbir Singh (1857–1885)
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Son of Gulab Singh.
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Ruled during the 1857 revolt and remained loyal to British.
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Promoted education, Sanskrit learning, and translation of legal texts.
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Introduced Ranbir Penal Code (RPC) — based on Indian Penal Code.
🔹 Achievements:
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Established libraries and schools.
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Strengthened civil and criminal justice systems.
3. Maharaja Pratap Singh (1885–1925)
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Ruled under British supervision (initially).
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British appointed Resident Officer in Srinagar.
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Started modern infrastructure: roads, telegraphs.
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Backed the formation of Jammu and Kashmir State Forces.
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Faced resentment due to oppressive taxation.
🔹 Notable Events:
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Rise of political consciousness in Kashmir.
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British limited his power after corruption charges.
4. Maharaja Hari Singh (1925–1947)
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The last Dogra ruler.
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Introduced progressive reforms: end of child marriage, female education, etc.
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Promised a Constitution for J&K in 1934.
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Faced Quit Kashmir Movement (1946) led by National Conference.
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Signed the Instrument of Accession to India in October 1947 after tribal invasion.
🔹 Major Events:
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1931 uprising against autocratic rule.
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Formation of Praja Sabha (Legislative Assembly).
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Accession to India post-Partition.
📌 Important Points for JKSSB
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Dogra dynasty lasted for 101 years (1846–1947).
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First ruler: Gulab Singh; Last ruler: Hari Singh.
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Ranbir Penal Code (RPC) was implemented during Ranbir Singh’s rule.
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Hari Singh introduced Praja Sabha and signed Instrument of Accession.
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1931 marked the beginning of organized political struggle in Kashmir.
📚 MCQs with Explanations
1. Who was the founder of the Dogra rule in Jammu and Kashmir?
A. Maharaja Hari Singh
B. Maharaja Ranbir Singh
C. Maharaja Pratap Singh
D. Maharaja Gulab Singh ✅
Explanation: Gulab Singh became the first Dogra ruler after signing the Treaty of Amritsar in 1846.
2. Which legal code was introduced by Maharaja Ranbir Singh?
A. Indian Penal Code
B. Jammu Penal Code
C. Ranbir Penal Code ✅
D. Kashmir Civil Code
Explanation: Ranbir Penal Code was based on IPC and applicable to Jammu and Kashmir until 2019.
3. The Instrument of Accession was signed by which Dogra ruler?
A. Pratap Singh
B. Ranbir Singh
C. Gulab Singh
D. Hari Singh ✅
Explanation: After the tribal invasion from Pakistan in 1947, Hari Singh acceded to India.
4. When was the Treaty of Amritsar signed?
A. 1845
B. 1846 ✅
C. 1857
D. 1947
Explanation: Treaty of Amritsar was signed on 16 March 1846, formalizing Gulab Singh’s rule.
5. During whose reign did the 1931 uprising against Dogra rule take place?
A. Maharaja Gulab Singh
B. Maharaja Pratap Singh
C. Maharaja Hari Singh ✅
D. Maharaja Ranbir Singh
Explanation: The uprising occurred during Hari Singh’s rule due to public discontent and suppression.
6. Which Maharaja was known for building infrastructure like roads and telegraphs?
A. Hari Singh
B. Ranbir Singh
C. Gulab Singh
D. Pratap Singh ✅
Explanation: Pratap Singh focused on modernization and infrastructure but under British control.
📝 Summary Table of Dogra Rulers
| Ruler | Reign | Contribution Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Gulab Singh | 1846–1857 | Founder; expanded territory |
| Ranbir Singh | 1857–1885 | Introduced RPC; promoted education |
| Pratap Singh | 1885–1925 | Infrastructure; British supervision |
| Hari Singh | 1925–1947 | Political reforms; Accession to India |
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