’76 employees terminated, we will not spare anyone supporting terrorism’
Jammu: Asserting that the administration will not spare anyone who supports terrorism, directly or indirectly, the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir Manoj Sinha said that the security situation is improved in the Union Territory as local recruitment of militants is at its lowest in decades, and the terror ecosystem has been dismantled.
In an interview to National Channel, LG Sinha said, “Security forces are following a clear guiding principle: Don’t touch innocents, don’t spare the culprits.”
Sinha credited the improved coordination between security forces, intelligence agencies, and the administration for the significant decline in terrorism.
“Local recruitment of militants is at its lowest in decades, and the terror ecosystem has been dismantled. Strict action has been taken against those supporting terrorism, with over 76 government employees dismissed under Article 311(2)(c) of the Constitution,” he said.
He added that Jammu and Kashmir has seen a resurgence in tourism, with over 2.36 crore tourists visiting last year.
Sinha highlighted the return of Bollywood film shootings, with more than 300 films and web series shot in J&K in recent years.
He said, “Kashmir was once considered paradise for filmmakers, and we are bringing that era back.”
Cultural activities have also revived, he said with Muharram processions being held after 34 years. “Cinema halls, which had remained closed for 32 years, have reopened in Srinagar, Pulwama, and Shopian. These are not just signs of normalcy but of a cultural renaissance in the region.”
He also revealed that Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed a remarkable 45% increase in tax and non-tax revenue over the past four years.
“The UT’s GDP has grown at a rate of 9.5%, with revenue rising from ₹1.64 lakh crore in 2018-19 to ₹2.63 lakh crore in 2022-23. This growth is a testament to the hard work of the people and the administration’s focus on transparency and accountability,” he said.
“Infrastructure development has been a major priority, with projects worth ₹1.5 lakh crore underway. The Z-Morh Tunnel, inaugurated recently, and the upcoming Zojila Tunnel, set to be completed by 2026, will ensure year-round connectivity to regions like Sonamarg and Ladakh. These projects will revolutionize connectivity and boost tourism and trade in the region,” he added.
When asked about the restoration of statehood, Sinha reiterated the central government’s assurance. He said, “Home Minister Amit Shah has clearly stated in Parliament that statehood will be restored at an appropriate time. The process will follow the completion of assembly elections and other necessary steps.”
He further said Industrial growth has also been prioritized, with proposals worth ₹1.65 lakh crore received under the new industrial policy.
Sinha shared, “We have already started production in projects worth ₹10,000 crore, and more are in the pipeline. The UT has also seen a surge in exports, particularly in handicrafts like Pashmina and carpets, with exports doubling in the last four years,”
He also claimed that the J&K has emerged as a leader in online services, offering over 1,100 services to its citizens.
Sinha explained, “If a service is not delivered within the stipulated time, the case is automatically escalated, and officials face financial penalties or administrative action,” he said adding, “J&K is now the number one UT in India for online services, surpassing even states like Madhya Pradesh.”
While acknowledging the challenges, Sinha expressed optimism about the future.
He said, “Development is a continuous process, and we are committed to addressing the needs of the people. Our focus remains on connectivity, whether it’s roads, railways, or digital infrastructure.”
He also addressed recent security concerns in the Jammu region, stating, “Our forces are fully prepared to tackle any threat. The people of Jammu are patriotic and will not tolerate any disturbance.”
