Handwara, Aug 4:
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha Friday said that the era of street violence in Kashmir has finally ended, ushering in safer streets and allowing people to venture out late into the evening—a luxury previously unthinkable due to frequent hartals and street turmoil.
Speaking at the inauguration of a multipurpose indoor stadium in Handwara, Sinha addressed a gathering, underscoring the significant positive transformation the region has undergone in recent times.
He extolled the enduring determination of the Kashmiri people, who for thirty long years bore the devastating brunt of terrorism and street unrest. Sinha declared that this era of suffering had drawn to a close, attributing the positive shift to relentless administrative efforts and the unyielding resilience of the populace.
Sinha underscored the paramount importance of peace for progress, emphasizing the palpable shift in the Kashmir Valley where peace now reigns over the roads, hartals and strikes relegated to the past. He asserted that authentic development can only flourish within a peaceful milieu.
While acknowledging lingering challenges, Sinha affirmed his commitment to shielding the innocent while firmly dealing with those who disrupt the newfound tranquility. He called upon all citizens to distance themselves from criminals and reiterated the administration’s unwavering dedication to ensuring justice and security for all.
Highlighting the government’s commitment to transparency and accessibility, Sinha declared the administration’s doors open round-the-clock, urging people to reach out whenever challenges arise. He explicitly stated his immunity to the sway of influential individuals, pledging allegiance to the needs of the common man.
Sinha debunked rumours regarding land allocation, firmly asserting that outsiders would not be granted land in the region. He affirmed that 5 marlas of land would be allocated to landless locals, with special attention to the Bakerwal community—an effort to elevate and empower the marginalized, ensuring their active participation in the region’s advancement.
The Lieutenant Governor lauded positive strides across various sectors. The burgeoning tourist influx reflected renewed confidence in the region, with expectations of further growth. Efforts to prioritize merit-based job recruitment were commended, dismantling the influence of the elite in the job sector.
A spotlight was also cast upon the region’s flourishing handicraft industry, which saw exports surge from 530 crores to 1176 crores. Sinha expressed pride in the unique QR code system for handcrafted products from the Kashmir Valley, assuring authenticity.
Sinha revealed plans for infrastructural progress, including the integration of Kupwara into the railway network and deliberations on the Lolab Bandipora road project. Substantial funding pledges for GMC Handwara were also announced.
In a bid to foster self-employment, the Lieutenant Governor disclosed that the past year saw 2,850 youth granted loans totaling 82 crore in Kupwara district, aiming to catalyze entrepreneurial opportunities within the region.
