'Peace not bought, but established in Jammu Kashmir': LG Manoj Sinha

July 16, 2025 by News Desk

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has said Jammu Kashmir is witnessing a “historic turnaround” in security, governance, and development, crediting Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah for the transformation.

In an interview with The Week, LG Sinha said, “The most significant shift has been in the security landscape. Stone-pelting has stopped, and recruitment into terrorist outfits has dropped from over a hundred to just one this year.”

He highlighted the government’s firm stance on terrorism, stating, “We don’t buy peace, we establish it. Our forces have dismantled the terror ecosystem. Pakistan’s policy hasn’t changed, but our response is stronger than ever.”

Referring to Operation Sindoor, he said it sent a clear message: “Terror and tourism cannot coexist. Our Army demonstrated its strength, and Pakistan was forced to back off.”

Sinha also spoke of efforts to rehabilitate families affected by terrorism. “Some had no aid, no FIRs, and no jobs. In Baramulla alone, we gave jobs to 40 people and are processing more aid. It’s a humanitarian approach.”

On the development front, Sinha said the region’s economy has nearly doubled in six years. “Travel time from Jammu to Srinagar is down to 4.5 hours. We’re investing over ₹1.5 lakh crore in road infrastructure.”

He added that institutions like IIT, AIIMS, IIM, and NIFT have come up, and power generation has jumped by 3,100 MW.

Tourism also saw a record 2.38 crore visitors last year, and private investment has nearly doubled. “People want development, not disruption,” he said. “There are no shutdowns, no calendars. The youth are moving forward.”

Asked about the return to statehood, Sinha said, “The new Kashmir is peaceful, vibrant, and inclusive. That itself is the answer.”