• Innocent lives taken in Ganderbal attack unforgivable
• Directs police to track and punish perpetrators
• Security forces will avenge the brutal attack on innocents
• Announces ex-gratia to victims’ NoKs
• Visits SKIMS to inquire health of injured victims
Srinagar, Oct 21: SRINAGAR: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Monday emphasized the need for a concerted effort by the police, army, and central forces to combat terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir.
Addressing the Police Commemoration Day at the Armed Police Complex in Zewan, Srinagar, he stressed that there should be “no laxity” in tackling terror, terrorism and its mentors, calling for a united approach to eradicate the menace from the region.
Lt Governor Sinha condemned the recent terrorist attack in Gagangeer, Ganderbal, which claimed seven lives, including a doctor, and left five others injured. He urged the J&K Police to intensify efforts to apprehend the attackers, ensuring they face strict punishment.
“The attack in Ganderbal is an unforgivable act. Innocent lives were senselessly taken, and such brutality cannot be condoned. I urge the police to swiftly track down the perpetrators and ensure they face strict punishment,” he said.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, his Advisor Nasir Aslam Wani, Cabinet Ministers and MLAs were also present on the occasion.
“There must be no complacency in the battle against terror. A unified effort is essential to eradicate terrorism from the soil of Jammu and Kashmir,” the LG said.
Sinha reiterated the need for heightened vigilance against ongoing threats, particularly from across the border. “Attempts to destabilize peace in J&K persist, and we must stay alert to thwart those seeking to disturb the region’s harmony,” he stated. He also praised the professionalism of the J&K Police, noting their dedication across various duties, including maintaining law and order and combating crime.
Sinha also highlighted that the threat of terrorism, particularly from across the border, remains persistent. “There are ongoing efforts to disrupt peace in J&K, and we must stay vigilant against those trying to destabilize the region,” he warned.
During his speech, LG praised the professionalism of Jammu and Kashmir Police in handling a wide range of duties.
“The J&K police are a symbol of valor, enthusiasm, and professionalism. Whether maintaining law and order, combating terrorism, addressing crime, or assisting people during adverse weather, they are always at the forefront. The public should recognize and fully support the police force’s efforts,” he said.
The LG reiterated that policy of J&K administration is clear “begunah ko chedo mat aur gunahgaar ko chodo mat (Don’t touch innocents but don’t leave the accused)”. “Directions in this regard have been passed to police and other forces which are being implemented in spirit since the past four years,” he said.
Meanwhile LG Sinha also paid rich tributes to the fallen heroes of the police, CRPF, and army who have sacrificed their lives in the line of duty. The administration is committed to meeting the needs of the families of these brave hearts.
“We are ensuring that the Next of Kin (NoKs) of slain policemen receive all the benefits available through various schemes, “ he added.
Regarding recently concluded Assembly and Lok Sabha elections, Sinha said that the results demonstrated the people’s desire to strengthen democracy in J&K. Over the past four years, the youth of J&K have been pursuing development and peace, striving for government jobs and entrepreneurship, he said.
“It is the administration’s commitment to making J&K drug-free, warning that “drug abuse is rapidly consuming our future generation. Both police and administration are working diligently to combat this growing issue,” LG Sinha added.
“The youth of J&K are chasing their dreams and moving forward with a focus on peace and development. They are seeking jobs and becoming entrepreneurs, demonstrating that they want to be part of a brighter future for the region,” LG Sinha said.
After the ceremony, Lieutenant Governor Sinha visited SKIMS Hospital in Srinagar to inquire about the health of civilians, who were injured in Gagangir terror attack.
Team of senior doctors briefed the Lt Governor on the health condition of the injured and medical procedures being followed. The Lt Governor has also directed the officials to provide all the support to the affected families.
The Lt Governor has posted on X, “Visited the Hospital in Srinagar to inquire about the health of construction workers, who were injured in Gagangir terror attack. I pray for their speedy recovery. Directed the officials to provide all the support to the affected families.
“The brutal and savage attack against construction workers will be avenged. I have asked the J&K Police, security forces to exact a price that will be remembered by the terrorists and their associates for time to come”,he said.
Meanwhile, Lieutenant Governor Sinha also directed Principal Secretary (Home Department, J&K) Chandraker Bharti to immediately provide financial assistance to the families of civilian victims of Gagangir terrorist attack.
As per communique, LG has also asked the APCO Infratech company to release the compensation without any delay. The officials of APCO Infratech briefed the Lieutenant Governor on assistance being provided to the kin / family members,” it said.
“Both Government and APCO Infratech company will ensure every possible financial assistance to the next of kin and other necessary support as required.
“Though it is an irreparable loss and cannot be compensated monetarily, we are taking concrete measures for the families of the martyr civilians so that they live a life of dignity,” LG Sinha added.
Communique reads that under SRE, Rs.6 Lakh to be given to the next of kin of each martyred civilian and Rs.15 Lakh as an immediate measure to be provided by APCO Infratech. An ex-gratia of Rs.2 Lakh to be provided to all the injured.
“Additionally, APCO Infratech will also provide financial assistance to the families of civilians on roll under Corporate Personal Accident Policy and 5 years of their gross CTC as compensation from insurance. All PRW labour and third-party employees are covered under workman compensation policy and accordingly financial assistance to be provided,” it said.
LG visits family of martyr civilian Shashi Abrol in Jammu
Jammu, October 21: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today visited the family of Shashi Abrol, who was killed by terrorists at Gagangir in Ganderbal on Sunday.
The Lt Governor offered his condolences and assured the family members that the terrorists responsible for the martyrdom of Shashi Abrol will be neutralised soon.
He also assured the family of all assistance and support from the administration. The entire nation stands in solidarity with the family of the martyr civilian in this hour of grief. Government will take care of the welfare, job and education of the next of kin, he said.