Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha stated that the abrogation of Article 370 on August 5, 2019, marked the decisive turning point that initiated the dismantling of the region's terror ecosystem and a measurable decline in terrorism.
LG Sinha on Wednesday described August 5 as "an important constitutional milestone" in the Union Territory's history, saying the changes ushered in after the abrogation of Article 370 had laid the foundation for peace, equality, development and accountable governance while significantly weakening terrorism and separatism.
Addressing a function marking seven years since the constitutional changes of August 5, 2019, Sinha said the day was not only about reflecting on the past but also about shaping the future of Jammu and Kashmir.Calling August 5 a defining moment, Sinha asserted that it fundamentally altered Jammu and Kashmir's trajectory. "It was after that day that the process of breaking the backbone of terrorism and separatism truly began," he said. "It was the day when the wall that had been erected between ordinary people and the privileged was brought down."
He said the changes marked "the beginning of efforts to ensure that every citizen enjoys equal rights" and a journey where "every individual could experience peace in their lives, receive justice, enjoy equal opportunities, and live with dignity."The Lieutenant Governor said the government's focus over the past seven years had been on delivering welfare schemes without discrimination and making governance transparent and responsive.
Highlighting governance reforms, Sinha said digital initiatives had improved accountability and service delivery."Through digital governance, we have succeeded in building an administrative system that is responsive. We have also succeeded in creating institutions that are accountable," he said, adding that opportunities were now being created "not for a privileged few, but for every deserving citizen."He also pointed to economic growth, saying investment was beginning to translate into employment. "Private investment has come in, industries have been established, and over the next six to eight months to a year, these industries will begin operations. This will certainly create more employment opportunities for the youth of the region," he said.
He also paid tribute to security personnel, saying they would continue to play a vital role in safeguarding peace. "It will also be written by the personnel of the police, the Army, and the security forces, who are prepared to shed every drop of their blood to protect every citizen and ensure the progress of Jammu and Kashmir."
Referring to families affected by terrorism, Sinha acknowledged delays in providing government jobs but blamed the lengthy verification process on attempts to exploit any irregularity. Speaking about the appointment drive, the Lieutenant Governor said many families affected by terrorist violence had waited for years despite legal provisions entitling them to compassionate appointments.
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