Srinagar, July 24: As Jammu and Kashmir is heading towards fourth anniversary of abrogation of Article 370 and 35 (A), Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha asserted that the decision under Prime Minister Narendra Modi ensured the citizens of J&K live life of their own choice.
Talking to DD News anchor Ramaa Tyaagi in ‘Khaas Mulakat’, LG Sinha praised PM Modi for the historic decision which he said ensured end of street violence and bandh calls in the valley.
He highlighted various development works, investment and how system of accountability and transparency was developed in the Union Territory after the rollback of Article 370 through parliamentary procedures which LG added marked an unprecedented turning point in the region’s history.
Reflecting on the transformations at the grassroots level, LG Sinha emphasized the end of street violence and strike calls. He noted that the menace of street violence, once a recurring issue, has now become a thing of the past, and the common people are now enjoying a free and peaceful environment. These achievements, according to him, rank among the most significant accomplishments in the region during the last four years.
He highlighted the slew of benefits stemming from the scrapping of these outdated provisions, such as the proliferation of educational institutions, medical colleges, IIT, IIM, NIFT, highway projects, and other infrastructure developments.
LG Sinha credited the improved coordination among security agencies for the positive changes, leading to the establishment of peace rather than buying it through negotiations.
“Gone are the days when people were constrained to return home before dusk,” as Sinha proclaimed that now, open markets thrive until late at night, with the youth revelling in musical programmes by the scenic banks of the Jehlum River.
Highlighting that the poor were the most affected by terrorism in the past, he emphasized the administration’s efforts to prioritize their well-being.
Reflecting on the burgeoning tourism industry which saw a boost in tourist footfall, with over 1 crore 88 lakh tourists visiting J&K last year, he said his government’s efforts are bearing fruit. “This surge has opened avenues for livelihood for hotels, taxi drivers, shikara operators, and others, stimulating the J&K economy.”
On the issue of dynastic politics and corruption, LG Sinha underscored the administration’s commitment to empower common citizens and restore their trust in the system. He said Jammu and Kashmir now stands on par with other states in terms of transparency, boasting an impressive array of 450 online services. He said the completion of 92,600 developmental projects signifies substantial progress in this domain.
He also discussed successful implementation of the three-tier Panchayati Raj System and the G20 Tourism Working Group meeting which saw massive participation of delegates.
LG Sinha said the region’s developmental and infrastructural decisions are now being made collectively by 35,000 elected representatives, a stark contrast to the past, where such decisions were limited to a select few families.
On the recent government decision to allot land to landless families, LG Sinha clarified that while agricultural land cannot be purchased by non-domiciles, investments in industries, hotels, hospitals, educational institutions, and other infrastructure developments are highly encouraged. He highlighted the positive response from the people of Jammu and Kashmir to this decision.
He highlighted the salient features of Industrial Policy of Jammu and Kashmir, boasting maximum incentives and projecting a potential investment of 75 thousand crores, aimed at combating unemployment and fostering economic growth.
On his government’s policy to address the issue of unemployment, LG said the Union Territory has witnessed the creation of over 28,000 government jobs in the last three years. Further, he said a dedicated portal of Mission Youth has been set up to rehabilitate and support the young population in establishing their incoming generating-enterprises.
Expressing deep regard for Kashmiri Pandits, LG Sinha assuring that the J&K government is committed to resolving their issues. He cited schemes for 6000 jobs and 6000 houses for the community being constructed under the Prime Minister’s development package (PMDP).
He also highlighted the administration’s efforts aimed at curbing the drug menace. “Under the banner of Nasha Mukh Bharat, we have launched Nasha Mukh Panchayat to ensure every village is free from drug addiction and peddling.”
Highlighting the potential of the film industry in the region, LG Sinha said film policy has been prepared following threadbare discussions, adding 400 movies have been filmed already in Kashmir so far in the last three years.
To a query, LG Sinha asserted that those who secured government jobs with the help of anti-national elements would be removed without compromise, citing the provision 311(c) that defines the services of individuals posing a threat to state and security.
Commenting on the conduct of assembly elections, LG Sinha said the decision lies with the Election Commission of India (ECI). However he said the UT administration is fully prepared for the exercise. He reminded that the Home Minister had outlined a three-step process: delimitation, election, and statehood, and assured that the commitment made in Parliament would be fulfilled.
Commenting on the ongoing annual Amarnath Yatra, LG Sinha said the reflects Kashmir’ rich culture and hospitality.
“This year, over 3.20 lakh pilgrims have paid their respects at the holy cave, and the cooperation of all sections of society, particularly Kashmiri Muslims, has been instrumental in making the Yatra a success,” he added.