Jammu: Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha strongly defended the administration’s handling of the Pahalgam terror attack and subsequent security operations, responding sharply to criticism from Chief Minister Omar Abdullah.
Speaking emotionally on news channel,’ Sinha recalled the tragic killing of 26 innocent tourists in Pahalgam by Pakistani terrorists, describing it as an attack on India’s soul that kept him awake for days.
He emphasized the firm and decisive response by security forces, including the elimination of the terrorists involved, and dismissed claims from political opponents suggesting the operation was politicized.
Addressing Omar Abdullah’s remark that the Lieutenant Governor’s failure brought the nation to the brink of war, Sinha welcomed the statement but pointed out the decades-long turmoil caused by Pakistan-backed militancy in Kashmir.
“For years, Pakistan used to issue ‘strike calendars,’ and schools, colleges, and businesses remained closed for 132 days annually,” he said, highlighting the peace that returned soon after the April 22 operation.
Sinha also confronted allegations by Congress and Shiv Sena leaders denying religious motives behind the terror attack. He stated that he personally witnessed grieving families asserting that the terrorists had indeed targeted Hindus.
Refuting suggestions that the operation Mahadev’s timing was politically motivated, Sinha clarified that the security operation had been ongoing since April 22 with clear instructions to prevent the attackers’ escape.
He described the military’s strategic autonomy in deciding the course of action and rejected criticisms over the timing of the ceasefire, emphasizing the army’s clear objective to dismantle terrorist networks and their training camps.
Responding to Rahul Gandhi’s claim that Prime Minister Modi feared US pressure leading to the ceasefire, Sinha said this was a political argument already addressed by the Prime Minister in Parliament, adding that no world leader contacted India to request a ceasefire.
Sinha also countered claims that military operations like Operation Sindoor were aimed at promoting Hindu symbolism, explaining the significance of names in context and underscoring efforts to rebuild religious sites across the Valley, including temples, gurdwaras, churches, and mosques.
In a firm message to detractors, Sinha advised that dismissive attitudes toward national security and military actions will only prolong conflict.
“If Rahul Gandhi believes surrender is good, let him think so. This will continue for 10 more years,” he said.
