Jammu, Mar 11: Newly appointed Himachal Pradesh Governor Kavinder Gupta on Wednesday said he would work for the overall development of the state while ensuring that all sections of society are taken along, and stressed the need for strong relations between Himachal Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir.
Gupta, who was sworn in as the Governor of Himachal Pradesh at a ceremony held at Raj Bhavan in Shimla on Tuesday, said the position of Governor does not belong to any political party and should serve the people of the state.
Arriving in Jammu to a warm reception on Wednesday after assuming office, Gupta expressed gratitude to President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi for entrusting him with the responsibility.
“I thank the Honourable President and the prime minister for giving me this opportunity. After seven months, I have been given a chance to work in a large state. Their wishes and expectations would be that everyone in society is taken along and that work is done for the betterment of Himachal,” Gupta said.
Responding to a question regarding reports of people from Jammu and Kashmir allegedly facing harassment in Himachal Pradesh, the Governor said that cordial relations between the two regions must be maintained.
“Absolutely. I have not had much time yet, but good relations should exist between Jammu and Kashmir and Himachal,” he said.
Gupta noted that the two regions share deep cultural and historical connections and emphasised the need to preserve mutual respect and goodwill.
“Our language, culture and civilisation are similar. During the rule of the Dogra rulers, Himachal was also part of their state. Even today, songs here mention places like Chamba and Kangra. That mutual love and affection should be maintained,” he said.
Gupta had earlier resigned from the post of Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh after serving the Union Territory for over eight months.
The 66-year-old leader was appointed as the Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh on July 18, 2025, becoming the third LG of the Union Territory since it was carved out of the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir in August 2019.
A senior BJP leader from Jammu, Gupta has earlier served as Deputy Chief Minister of the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir and as Speaker of the Legislative Assembly. He has also held the position of Mayor of Jammu. (Agencies)
