“Naya Kashmir is peaceful, vibrant, and full of opportunity, only one local youth joined terror ranks this year
Diplomat News Desk
Srinagar,(DD) Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has said that Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood will be restored at an “appropriate time,” emphasizing that the Union Territory has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years.
In an exclusive interview to a national news channel The Week, Sinha reflected on his five-year tenure, stating that the authority of the Indian State has been firmly established in the region. “There are no hartals, no shutdown calendars, and this year only one local youth has joined terrorist ranks. The public’s trust in peace and governance has significantly increased,” he said.
Delimitation, Elections Done — Statehood Will Follow
Sinha reiterated that the roadmap laid out post-August 2019 remains on track. “The Union Home Minister had clearly stated the three-step process: delimitation, elections, and restoration of statehood. Delimitation is complete. Free and fair elections have been held with impressive voter turnout. An elected government is now in place. The final step—statehood—will happen, but at the right time,” he asserted.
He said Jammu and Kashmir is now more integrated with the rest of India than ever before, but added that more work remains. He underlined the importance of maintaining strong control over law and order, calling J&K a “frontier region” vulnerable to cross-border threats.
Terror Recruitment Plummets, Public Trust Grows
Highlighting improved security, LG Sinha said terrorism as a state policy continues in Pakistan, but local recruitment into terror groups has dropped drastically. “Earlier, 100 to 150 local youth would join terrorist outfits every year. Last year, the number dropped to six or seven. This year, it is just one. This decline reflects the public’s growing confidence in the administration and the security forces,” he said.
Development Milestones: Roads, Investment, Jobs
Sinha pointed to significant infrastructure and economic development across the UT. “When I took charge in 2020, it took 8 to 9 hours to travel from Jammu to Srinagar. Today, it takes just 4.5 hours. Tunnel construction alone has received over Rs 1.5 lakh crore in investment,” he said.
Private sector investment, he added, has soared from Rs 1,400 crore to nearly Rs 30,000 crore, with Rs 10,000–12,000 crore worth of projects already operational. Power generation capacity has increased by 3,100 MW, and tourism hit a record high with 2.38 crore visitors last year.
Digital governance is also expanding, with 1,146 public services now available online and land records fully digitized. He highlighted schemes like PMGSY for rural connectivity and the establishment of premier institutions including IIT, IIM, AIIMS, NIFT, and seven new medical colleges.
‘No Lockdowns, No Stone Pelting’
The Lieutenant Governor said the region has shifted from a past of shutdowns and unrest to one of stability and growth. “No lockdowns, no stone-pelting. Late-night markets are back. People are living normal lives. That’s the real change,” he remarked.
Referring to recent anti-terror operations, he said every act of terror is treated as an act of war. “We’ve sent a strong message across the border through decisive actions like Operation Sindoor. Our security forces remain alert and resolute.”
Humanitarian Approach to Victims of Terror
Sinha also highlighted the government’s proactive outreach to victims of terrorism. During a recent visit to Baramulla, he met families who had lost loved ones or suffered due to terror over the past three decades. “Yesterday, 40 terror-affected individuals were provided government jobs. We are fast-tracking pending compensation cases, helping people file FIRs, and facilitating self-employment,” he said.
Governance, Coordination with CM
Addressing questions on governance, LG Sinha clarified that the roles of the Chief Minister and Lieutenant Governor are well-defined under the J&K Reorganization Act. “My relationship with the Chief Minister is cordial. I work within my constitutional limits and ensure smooth coordination through regular meetings,” he said.
Responding to former CM Mehbooba Mufti’s allegation that government employees from a particular community are being targeted, Sinha said: “Article 311 is a constitutional provision. Action under it is taken only after due process and based on credible evidence. No innocent person has been victimised.”
The Rise of ‘Naya Kashmir’
Sinha concluded by underscoring the spirit of “Naya Kashmir”—a place of peace, growth, and inclusivity. From the revival of Muharram processions after 35 years to the return of cinema halls and traditional festivals, he said the change is visible across the Valley. “The aspirations that once seemed distant are now within reach. This is Naya Kashmir—vibrant, peaceful, and full of opportunity,” he said.(DD)