On Thursday, Jammu and Kashmir’s Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha emphasized the importance of acknowledging the current status of the region as a Union Territory.
This statement came during a media interaction held to mark the fifth anniversary of Jammu and Kashmir’s reorganization under the Reorganisation Act of 2019.
His remarks came as several prominent political parties, including the National Conference (NC) and Congress, chose to abstain from the day’s celebrations, expressing their discontent with the transformation of Jammu and Kashmir from a state to a Union Territory.
Sinha stated, “Things took the shape as promised by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah that first, delimitation, then Assembly polls, and then statehood at an appropriate time. At present, J&K is a Union Territory and everyone must accept this reality. When J&K becomes a state again, we will celebrate that day as well.”
The absence of NC leaders from the celebration was highlighted by Sinha, who referred to the party’s stance against the Union Territory status.
He further remarked, “It was unfortunate that those who took oath under the Indian Constitution are opposing UT status of J&K. This reflects their dual character.”
Addressing concerns over the postponement of local elections, the Lt Governor explained that delays related to the reservation for backward classes were responsible for the hold-up.
He assured that the J&K administration remains committed to conducting these elections promptly.
J&K Has Made Significant Progress In Various Sectors: Manoj Sinha
Highlighting recent developments in Jammu and Kashmir, Sinha noted the significant progress made in various sectors, stating, “The development is visible from roads to train to hospitals to medical colleges. The outside investment will soon go from Rs 20,000 crore to Rs one lakh crore. J&K Bank was pulled out from the debt and today this bank is a profit-earning institution that gives loans to everyone in need. Today it is a people’s bank. The progress bank is an example of a change J&K has gone through in the past few years.”
Additionally, the Lt Governor painted a picture of transformation in the region, asserting that, “In the past five years, J&K marched ahead with peace and prosperity. Lal Chowk’s identity was changed and today it is known for something else. Pulwama Chowk witnesses anti-terrorist protests and candlelight marches. Post 2019, the air has changed. In the past few days, some terrorist incidents took place where brave men lost their lives. But I believe that J&K Police and other forces will give the perpetrators a befitting reply.”
Sinha reiterated the government’s commitment to eradicating terrorism, stating, “Efforts are on to root out the terrorism from J&K. Time is not far when J&K would be free from terror. Peace is a must for J&K’s progress. Some people are trying to disrupt the peaceful atmosphere. I request them, refrain from provocative statements as it was after huge efforts that J&K is a peaceful place today.”
Meanwhile, the NC and Congress have condemned the celebrations, labeling the events of 5 August 2019 – the abrogation of Article 370 and the downgrading of J&K to a Union Territory – as unconstitutional and immoral.
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