Indian State’s authority is fully re-established in JK: Lt Guv
Srinagar: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Wednesday said that one of his key achievements in Jammu and Kashmir is that the Indian State’s authority is fully re-established here.
“Though there is always scope to do more I have tried to serve to the best of my capability—strengthening peace, economy, and livelihoods in the UT,” he told a National News organisation during an interview at Raj Bhawan in Srinagar
On being asked about his tenure as the Lieutenant Governor of the UT post Article 370 abrogation, Sinha said that these past five years have brought unprecedented change here.
“We’ve seen massive economic growth, doubling of the economy, and enhanced transparency and accountability. Infrastructure—roads, tunnels, and highways—have expanded. Travel time from Jammu to Srinagar has been significantly reduced and power generation has risen from 3,450 MW to nearly 5,000 MW,” he added. .
He said that Medical education saw new premier institutions being started and tourism reached record highs—nearly 2 crore tourists visited Jammu and Kashmir last year.
“Private investment, which was once minimal, has now crossed ₹12,000 crore. Over 1,140 services are now online. We launched a holistic agriculture development plan to double the agri-GDP share. Overall, the focus has been on prosperity, progress, and people-first governance,” the Lt Guv said.
He said that on the issue of terrorism and security lot of changes have been witnessed.
“Major security policy changes were implemented. The Jammu and Kashmir Police, Indian Army, and paramilitary forces have worked in unison. Stone-pelting has stopped. Bandhs and shutdowns on Pakistan’s directions are a thing of the past. Local terrorist recruitment is at an all-time low. Big commanders have been eliminated,” he said
Sinha said that around 100-150 local recruitments occurred in the five years—showing progress and people’s faith in peace.
He said that his government has initiated various relief measures for terror victims and their families.
“Many victims were long ignored—no financial aid and no jobs were offered to them. We identified them and provided them appointments in the government departments. In Baramulla, we recently issued appointment letters to 40 eligible terror victim families. We’re also facilitating self-employment through schemes announced by the government so that those who are not inclined to take up jobs start their ventures,” he added.
The Lt Guv said that encroached properties of terror victims are being reclaimed. “We’re treating these issues with empathy and resolve,” he said.
Commenting on the recent Indo-Pak faceoff and the success of ‘Operation Sindoor,’ the Lt Guv said that the operation is continuing.
“PM Modi has made it clear that terrorism and tourism cannot coexist. Recent military actions gave a clear message to Pakistan that any act of terror will face strong retribution. The response has been proactive and effective,” he said.
Sinha said that from a national security point of view J&K’s integration is crucial.
“Our neighbor needs no introduction,” he said, adding that security and governance must stay aligned with the Centre.
“The MHA will evaluate the situation. When things normalize, further decisions may be taken,” he added.
On being asked about the demands being raised about the restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, the Lt Guv said that the Union Home Minister has said in the Parliament that first delimitation will take place, then elections, and then statehood to JK will be restored at an appropriate time.
“Delimitation happened. Elections were conducted peacefully with high voter turnout. The assurance given in Parliament will be fulfilled—at an appropriate time. The PM has also reiterated this during his visits,” the Lt Guv added.
He said that the balance of power between the Chief Minister’s Office and the LG Office is perfectly aligned.
“Powers are clearly defined in the Jammu & Kashmir Reorganization Act. I know my constitutional limits and never overstep them. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and I have frequent interactions, and any confusion is addressed through communication. The relationship between two of us is healthy,” he said.
Commenting on the action taken under Article 311 against employees with terror links, the Lt Guv said that action has been taken against people from different communities.
“Religion is not a factor. Article 311 was applied after due process and only against those with verified terror links. Dossiers are compiled and thoroughly vetted,” he said.
On being asked about census and delimitation and how will it affect J&K, the Lt Guv said that the census has begun nationwide.
“Once the process is complete, we’ll have clarity on its impact. At that point, we’ll discuss its implications on J&K,” he said.
JK saw massive economic growth, doubling of the economy
Private investment, which was once minimal, has now crossed ₹12,000 Cr
Overall focus has been on prosperity, progress, and people-first governance
Over 1,140 services are now online
Statehood will be announced at appropriate time
Have healthy working relationship with CM
Victims of terrorism will be rehabilitated
