Says politicians’ “dual character” exposed
Panchayat elections soon after OBC reservation process completes
Srinagar, Oct 31: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha marked the fifth anniversary of Jammu and Kashmir’s Union Territory status with a call for acceptance of the region’s current reality, urging those opposing UT status to embrace it as the prevailing constitutional order. Speaking at the SKICC during the UT Foundation Day celebrations, Sinha emphasized that Jammu and Kashmir is now a Union Territory, and that this reality should be acknowledged by all.
Reflecting on the broader process of change in J&K, Sinha highlighted the roadmap laid out by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah, stating, “We are witnessing the promised transformation in J&K with the delimitation process, followed by Assembly elections, and ultimately the restoration of statehood.” Sinha assured that if J&K becomes a state again in the future, it will be celebrated with equal enthusiasm.
In a pointed remark, Sinha criticized certain political leaders who opted out of the Foundation Day event, calling it indicative of a “dual character.” He noted that some leaders who had taken an oath to uphold the Constitution and represented J&K as a Union Territory were now absent from the occasion.
National Conference leaders, as well as People’s Conference leader Sajad Gani Lone and CPI(M) leader Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami, were among those who did not attend, with Tarigami asserting that the event disregarded public sentiment on J&K’s current status.
Sinha also pointed to substantial development in the region, attributing improvements in infrastructure, healthcare, and foreign investment to the efforts under PM Modi’s leadership. “Infrastructure, including roads, trains, and hospitals, has seen significant progress, with anticipated investments climbing from Rs 20,000 crore to Rs 1 lakh crore,” Sinha said.
On the issue of security, Sinha acknowledged recent terrorist incidents, but expressed confidence in the capabilities of the J&K Police and security forces. He affirmed that efforts to eradicate terrorism would persist, emphasizing that peace is crucial for development. He also cautioned against incitement, urging those who might disturb the region’s peace to avoid making provocative statements.
Sinha added that preparations are underway for Panchayat elections, expected soon after completing the reservation process for backward classes. While these local elections had been delayed due to constitutional challenges, he expressed optimism that the OBC reservation now passed by Parliament would enable smooth progress.
Speaking on the achievements registered in Banking sector, the Lt Governor highlighted that the J&K Bank is one of the greatest turnaround success stories of the UT.
In 2019-20, the bank has reported loss of Rs.1139 Cr. It reported a profit of Rs. 1700 Cr in the year 2023-24. In current FY, J&K Bank clocked Rs. 991 Cr in profit, he added.
On the occasion, the Lt Governor called upon the people to remain united, identify and isolate anti-national elements and those disrupting the peace.
The Lt Governor also spoke on the important role and contribution of Panchayati Raj Institutions, ULBs, and elected representatives in J&K’s development. He expressed hope that the Panchayati Raj elections would be held soon in J&K.
“My dream is to see that every family is prosperous. My dream is to see Faster development of the infrastructure, industries and fruits of growth reach the last person in the queue,” the Lt Governor said.
On the occasion, beneficiaries under different government schemes shared their success stories.
Gulam Ali Khatana, Member of Parliament; B R Sharma, Election Commissioner J&K; Atal Dulloo, Chief Secretary; Administrative Secretaries, senior officers of Security Forces, Civil and Police Administration, and prominent citizens from all walks of life were present.
LG administers ‘Rashtriya Ekta Diwas’ pledge to officers
Pays tributes to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on his Janm-Jayanti
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha administered ‘Rashtriya Ekta Diwas’ Pledge to the officers at Raj Bhawan, on the occasion of Rashtriya Ekta Diwas to commemorate the birth anniversary of the Iron Man of India, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.
Paying tributes to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on his Janm-Jayanti, the Lt Governor has called upon the people to dedicate themselves to the ideals of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and work towards building a Viksit Bharat.
The Lieutenant Governor has posted on X: “Humble tributes to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Ji, Iron Man of India, on his birth anniversary. He dedicated his life for India’s freedom & creation of a united India. On the occasion of his Janm-Jayanti, let us dedicate ourselves to his ideals & work towards building a Viksit Bharat”.
