Mehta Basti Ram
Mehta Basti Ram | |
|---|---|
Zorawar Fort Ladakh, where Basti Ram was the first Qiladar (commandant) | |
| Governor of Leh | |
| In office 1847–1861 | |
| Preceded by | Zorawar Singh |
| Succeeded by | Mehta Mangal (son) |
| Personal details | |
| Born | Early 19th century Kishtwar, Jammu, Sikh Empire |
| Died | Late 19th century Kishtwar, Jammu and Kashmir, British Raj |
| Nationality | Dogra |
| Spouse | Unknown |
| Children |
|
| Occupation | Military officer, Governor |
| Military service | |
| Allegiance | Jammu and Kashmir |
| Rank | Colonel |
| Unit | Fateh Shibji Battalion |
| Battles/wars | Dogra invasion of Ladakh, Dogra–Tibetan War |
Mehta Basti Ram was a Dogra officer and commander of the Fateh Shibji battalion under Raja Gulab Singh of Jammu (later Maharaja of Jammu and Kashmir). Basti Ram later served as the governor (thanadar) of Leh in Ladakh between 1847 and 1861. Basti Ram joined the service of Raja Gulab Singh in 1821 and became an officer under General Zorawar Singh during his conquest of Ladakh between 1834 and 1841. After holding positions such as the governor of Taklakot (briefly) and thanadar of Zanskar, he became the second governor of Leh under Maharaja Gulab Singh.