Srinagar, July 16 | ANB Digital
Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha, has reiterated that the restoration of full statehood to the Union Territory will take place "at an appropriate time," emphasizing that the Central Government is adhering to a well-defined roadmap for democratic transition.
In an exclusive interview, Sinha said the groundwork for statehood—comprising delimitation, peaceful elections, and an elected government—has already been laid.
> “Delimitation is complete, elections were held peacefully with high voter turnout, and a new government is in place. The final step—statehood—will follow at the right time,” he stated.
Security & Stability: Terrorism in Retreat
Highlighting significant improvements in the security situation, Sinha pointed to a dramatic fall in local terror recruitment.
> “Earlier, 100 to 150 local youths would join terror groups annually. This year, only one has done so. That’s a massive shift in public mindset,” he remarked.
While cross-border infiltration remains a concern, the LG assured that India's security forces are fully prepared.
He cited Operation Sindoor as a landmark response, declaring:
> “Every act of terror is now treated as an act of war. The message is loud and clear—threats to national security will not be tolerated.”
‘No Hartals, No Fear’: Return to Normalcy
Sinha noted a major transformation in daily life, with hartals, bandhs, and stone-pelting becoming things of the past.
> “People now move freely, even at night. That was unthinkable just a few years ago. Peace today is embraced, not enforced,” he said.
Investment Boom & Infrastructure Growth
Unveiling a slew of developmental milestones, the LG said Jammu and Kashmir is undergoing an economic transformation:
Travel time between Jammu and Srinagar halved due to ₹1.5 lakh crore worth of road and tunnel projects.
Private investment surged from ₹1,400 crore to over ₹30,000 crore; ₹10,000–₹12,000 crore worth of industrial units are already functional.
Power generation capacity increased by 3,100 MW in addition to the existing 3,450 MW.
Tourism hit record highs, with 2.38 crore visitors in the past year.
Over 1,100 government services digitized, including land records.
Major expansion in higher education with IIT, IIM, AIIMS, NIFT, and seven new medical colleges.
Under PMGSY, village road connectivity saw a major boost with ₹4,000 crore sanctioned.
Compassionate Governance for Terror Victims
Sinha also highlighted efforts to support victims of terrorism, saying the administration is actively delivering on promises of justice and welfare.
> “Just yesterday, we provided government jobs to 40 such victims. Compensation, FIR support, and self-employment schemes are being expedited. It’s about dignity—not just files,” he said.
Working with the New Government
On coordination with the newly elected government, the LG emphasized a constitutionally guided, cooperative approach.
> “Roles are clearly defined under the J&K Reorganization Act. I meet the Chief Minister regularly, and our relationship is both cordial and professional,” he said.
Responding to allegations of discrimination raised by former CM Mehbooba Mufti, he stated:
> “No innocent person has been targeted. Actions under Article 311 are evidence-based and in national interest. Due process is always followed.”
‘This Is Naya Kashmir’: A New Dawn
Sinha said symbolic events—like the first Muharram procession in Srinagar in 35 years, revival of traditional festivals, and reopening of cinemas—signal a cultural and social renaissance.
> “What was once imagined is now real. This is Naya Kashmir—vibrant, peaceful, and full of possibilities.” ANB
