Nawab Sir Sadiq Muhammad Khan Abbasi V

Nawab Sir Sadiq Muhammad Khan Abbasi V (1904–1966) was the last ruling Nawab of the princely state of Bahawalpur and an important historical figure in the history of South Punjab.

He succeeded to the throne of Bahawalpur as a young ruler and governed the state during a period of major political and social change in the Indian subcontinent.

During his reign, Bahawalpur developed a number of important educational, cultural and public institutions. His patronage was associated with schools, colleges, libraries, hospitals, mosques and other public works across the state.

Among the institutions associated with his period was Sadiq Public School in Bahawalpur, established in 1954 on a large tract of land. The Sadiq Reading Library, whose foundation stone was laid in 1924, is another important historical institution connected with his reign.

Nawab Sadiq Muhammad Khan V also supported education. Bahawalpur State provided financial assistance and scholarships for students, and educational institutions in the state attracted students from different parts of the region.

The Nawab's reign coincided with the creation of Pakistan in 1947. Bahawalpur was one of the princely states that had to determine its political future following the end of British rule.

On 7 October 1947, Nawab Sadiq Muhammad Khan V signed the Instrument of Accession through which Bahawalpur State acceded to Pakistan. The state retained its separate administrative status for several years before becoming part of West Pakistan in 1955.

The Nawab also contributed funds and property to the newly created state of Pakistan. His name remains closely associated with Bahawalpur's historical architecture, educational institutions and cultural heritage.

Several landmarks in Bahawalpur continue to preserve the memory of his reign, including Sadiq Public School, Sadiq Reading Library, Jamia Masjid Al-Sadiq and the royal complex at Dera Nawab Sahib.

Nawab Sadiq Muhammad Khan V died in London in 1966. He was later buried in the royal graveyard at Derawar.

His legacy remains an important part of Bahawalpur's history and the wider heritage of South Punjab.