History of Karnal District, which is located in Punjab, speaks about the political scene of this area since the time when it was ruled by some royal dynasties. Raja Karna, who finds a mention in the Hindu epic of Mahabharata is believed to have been the founder of Karnal and the district came into existence in the year 1739. The district was formed when Muhammad Shah was defeated by Nadir Shah. During 1863, Raja Gopal Singh of Jind captured Karnal and in 1785 the Marhattas started controlling the area of Karnal. Karnal witnessed political conflicts between the Sikhs and Marhattas. The word `Karnal` has been derived from `Karnalaya` which implies the home of Karna, a character in Mahabharata.
Karnal was eventually conquered by the Marhattas from Raja Bhag Singh of Jind in the year 1795. George Thomas also participated in this war. At this point of time, Karnal was seized by Raja Gurdit Singh of the region of Ladwa. The British captured Karnal during 1805 and transferred the throne of Karnal to Muhamdi Khan (Mandal). The British then took possession of the fort which had been constructed by Raja Gurdit Singh as it had become a British cantonment. This fort was made into a beautiful residence for Kabul`s Dost Mohammad Khan Amir. Historians state that the fort was utilized a prison house, a house for the poor and even as a quarter for native cavalry. In the year 1862, the fort was granted to the Education Department, when the district school was shifted here.
On 1st November, 1966, Karnal district was declared as one of the seven districts of the northern Indian state of Haryana. It was during this time that the inception of this Indian district took place. The district of Kurukshetra was separated from Karnal district on 23rd January, 1973. On 1st November, 1969, Kaithal district was separated from Karnal. During 24th July, 1991 Karnal district was joint with Panipat District on 1st January, 1992.
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