Says “Authority of Indian State in J&K strengthened during my 5-year tenure, no hartals, one local youth joined terror this year”
“My relationship with CM Omar cordial; Naya Kashmir vibrant & full of opportunities, J&K now more integrated with India than ever before”
Srinagar: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has asserted that the restoration of statehood for Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) will occur at an appropriate time, emphasizing the need for patience. In an interview, he reflected on his five-year tenure, highlighting the significant transformation in the region under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership.
In an interview to a national news channel the J&K Lt Governor said that following the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019 the three-step process outlined by the Union Home Minister—delimitation, elections, and statehood—has progressed, with delimitation completed and assembly elections held peacefully. Sinha pointed out that J&K is now more integrated with India, although he acknowledged that further improvements are necessary. He described the region as a “frontier area,” stressing the importance of maintaining central control over law and order due to ongoing threats from Pakistan. He reported a dramatic decline in local youth recruitment into terrorist groups, with only one case this year compared to previous years, indicating growing public confidence in peace and governance. During his tenure, Sinha highlighted achievements in peace, economic growth, and infrastructure development. Travel times between Jammu and Srinagar have significantly decreased due to infrastructure upgrades, and private sector investment has surged from ₹1,400 crore to nearly ₹30,000 crore. He noted the establishment of key institutions and improvements in digital governance, with numerous public services now available online. Sinha also reported a notable improvement in security, with no recent lockdowns or strikes, and a cessation of stone-pelting incidents. He emphasized the strong coordination between police, the Army, and Central forces in maintaining order. Addressing concerns about the targeting of government employees from specific communities, he assured that actions taken under Article 311 are based on thorough investigations and credible evidence, ensuring that no innocent individuals are harmed. In his vision for a “new Kashmir,” Sinha described a region characterized by peace, economic progress, and inclusivity, marked by successful community events and the revival of cultural traditions. He expressed optimism about the aspirations of the people of J&K, stating that they are now more visible and attainable than ever before.
