India
Lieutenant Governor Highlights Security Gains and Development After Article 370 Abrogation
Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha spoke on the 8th Union Territory Foundation Day and the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, saying that the abrogation of Article 370 has freed ordinary citizens from fear and granted them rights that had been denied for decades. He noted that no ruling party leader or minister attended the foundation day function. "We did not buy peace; we established peace. Zero‑tolerance policy crippled terror networks and restored normal life across J&K," Sinha said. He added that since 2020 more than 780 terrorists have been eliminated, local recruitment has ended, and stone‑petting has ceased, marking a historic security transformation. Sinha said that terror, separatism and stone‑petting have given way to democracy, development and public participation after Article 370 was removed. He highlighted ongoing action against narco‑terrorism, noting that thousands of drug smugglers and peddlers have been arrested this year, their illicit assets attached, and drug‑funded mansions demolished. "Conflict entrepreneurs who profited from separatism and terrorism stand exposed," he added. Sinha described October 31 as a milestone that changed history and strengthened national integration, equality and inclusive development. He said J&K has become a model of peace, development and good governance. Referring to the aspirations of the people, he said the future of J&K must be shaped by peace, equal opportunities and development. "The future of Jammu and Kashmir lies not in the shadow of terror, but in the light of peace; not behind the walls of discrimination, but in equal opportunities; and not in stagnation, but in the momentum of progress," he added. The Lieutenant Governor emphasized that unity is sustained through justice and public trust, and that public trust must be earned through deeds, not promises. He stressed the need for inclusive growth that reaches every household, village and community, and highlighted the importance of education, opportunity and progress for children and youth. Sinha expressed satisfaction that people of J&K are increasingly participating in developmental initiatives and contributing to the region’s growth story. "My dream is that by 2047, J&K should emerge as a model of prosperity with a modern economy, world‑class healthcare, excellent education and a vibrant cultural heritage," he said. A documentary film on J&K’s transformational journey was also screened at the event. The function was attended by senior BJP leader and chairperson of the J&K Waqf Board, Dr. Syed Darakhshan Andrabi; Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo; Director General of Police Nalin Prabhat, among others. No leader from the regional parties, including the ruling National Conference, attended the functions. During the ‘Rashtriya Ekta Diwas’, Sinha administered the ‘Unity Pledge’ to Lok Bhavan officials, staff and security personnel. Published – November 01, 2026 02:06 am IST