Statehood restoration doesn’t require political effort: LG

Baramulla, Nov 5: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha Tuesday said that the restoration of statehood does not require any political effort as it had been assured in the Parliament and was binding on the government.

Interacting with the youth during the Raabta-e-Awaam programme, organised by the Save Youth Save Future foundation in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district, he reiterated that statehood would be restored soon.

The LG said that the commitment had been affirmed by both Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister, Amit Shah and it was “as certain as the sun rising in the east”.

Referring to the Prime Minister’s address to the people of J&K during his visit to Srinagar, on International Yoga Day, he said that the PM had assured the people that statehood would be restored soon.

LG Sinha said that the Home Minister had also assured the Parliament that after the delimitation process, assembly elections would be held, followed by the reinstatement of statehood for Jammu and Kashmir.

“The politicians should understand that assurances made in the Parliament are binding for the government and there is no need for the political effort,” he said.

Over the security situation, the LG said that certain elements were trying to derail the peace process.

“Those working on the direction of Pakistan will need to be identified,” the LG said. “With the collaboration between the government and the people, terrorism can be eliminated within a year.”

He said that some individuals shelter terrorists and when an action is taken against them they claim injustice.

LG Sinha said that 40,000 to 50,000 lives had been lost in Jammu and Kashmir while many children had been orphaned and numerous women widowed.

“We are bound to provide them justice by destroying the terrorists and their support network. We must deliver justice to the orphaned children and widowed women. We cannot remain mute spectators to their plight,” he said.

The LG assured that while firm action would be taken against terrorists and their supporters, innocent lives would not be harmed.

“Begunah Ko Chedo Mat, Ore Gunahgar Ko Chodo Mat (Spare the innocent; Punish the guilty),” he reiterated his slogan.

LG Sinha reiterated the commitment of the government to empower the youth of J&K and provide them necessary opportunities and facilities to unlock their potential for a better tomorrow.

He assured the talented youth that their empowerment was amongst the foremost priorities of the government.

“Our youth as fearless forces of creativity and torch-bearers of positive change are building a bright and vibrant J&K. Under the leadership of PM Modi, efforts have been made to fulfil the hopes, aspirations, and dreams of the youth of J&K,” the LG said.

Emphasising the significant role of the younger generation in nation-building, he called upon the youth to work with team spirit while following the ideals and values of the founding fathers of the country for the peace and progress of J&K.

“The combined power of the youth ignited by desire and determination to carve a new destiny for the society will be the most powerful strength in the journey of developed India and a joyous, peaceful, and prosperous Jammu and Kashmir,” LG Sinha said.

Sharing key reforms and initiatives of the government in the past few years, he highlighted the need to channelise the energy of the youth towards achieving the common goal of development and peace.

“When the energy of the youth and their dynamic actions are channelised for development, cultural, and social activities, then they not only work towards realising the true potential of the region but also their consciousness, creativity, and innovation and their courage impacts various developmental sectors,” the LG said.

He also urged the youth to carry the message of peace and contribute to counter-radicalisation and prevention of drug addiction.

“Among the many challenges facing the youth is the challenge of drug addiction. Drug-free J&K is a step to ensure our youth realise their true potential and with the hard work shape their tomorrow,” LG Sinha said.

He commended the Save Youth Save Future foundation for working tirelessly for youth empowerment. “I am confident the young generation will fulfil the dream of modern J&K and help the society to achieve developmental aspirations,” the LG said.

During the interactive session, the young panellists from diverse backgrounds shared their views on the present scenario and transformational journey of J&K.

Responding to the issues and demands put forth by the youth, civil society members, and various sections of society, the LG assured that appropriate action would be taken to redress the genuine issue projected by them during the interaction.

On the occasion, he felicitated the young achievers, social workers, and prominent citizens for their contribution to society.

Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, Vijay Kumar Bidhuri; Inspector General of Police, Kashmir, Vidhi Kumar Birdi; Deputy Inspector General of Police, North Kashmir Range (NKR) Baramulla, Maqsood-u-Zaman; Deputy Commissioner (DC) Baramulla, Minga Sherpa and Chairman, Save Youth Save Future Foundation, Wajahat Farooq Bhat were also present on the occasion.