‘Terror, sympathizers caused decades of damage’
Jammu Tawi, Nov 14: Jammu Tawi, Nov 14: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Friday asserted that the end of terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir is “within reach” if its ecosystem is fully dismantled, and urged citizens to intensify the collective fight against the menace.
Speaking at the valedictory function of the first phase of celebrations marking the 150th year of the national song Vande Mataram at MA Stadium, the LG said he firmly believes that “when terrorists and their sympathisers stop getting oxygen, that will be the last nail in their coffin — and that day is not far.” He appealed to the people to “come forward and contribute to making J&K completely terror-free.”
Sinha said Pakistan-sponsored terrorists and the broader terror ecosystem have caused enormous damage to Jammu and Kashmir over the past three decades. “They killed innocents and spilled the blood of our people. The common man must stand up against such elements so that they are eliminated from the system,” he said.
Expressing concern over continued attempts to mislead the youth, the LG said a handful of individuals are still trying to radicalise young minds. “It is important to identify and isolate such elements. Citizens must play an active role in safeguarding peace and strengthening J&K’s transformative journey,” he added.
Highlighting the region’s progress, the LG said the situation in Jammu and Kashmir has never been as promising as it has been since 2019. “The economy has grown at an impressive pace since 2021, and the rapid development of infrastructure since 2019 is unprecedented in J&K’s history,” he noted. He said the government’s push for industrialisation is yielding significant results and “bold decisions” have been taken to ensure a brighter, more prosperous future for the people.
Congratulating citizens for their enthusiastic participation in the 150th year celebrations of Vande Mataram, Sinha said J&K had secured the first rank nationally in overall participation during the week-long events. “Today, more than 20,000 students and citizens participated, showing a strong display of national pride,” he said.
The LG paid homage to Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, recalling his contribution to India’s freedom struggle and societal awakening. “Bankim Chandra strengthened the bond between Maa Bharti and her sons. Vande Mataram was the inner song of every Indian heart during the freedom struggle and should continue to inspire today’s youth,” he said.
Calling upon all sections of society to uphold the ideals of Bankim Chandra, Sinha urged citizens to dedicate themselves to nation-building, shed remnants of the colonial past, and embrace the spirit of brotherhood and equality. He said the overwhelming public participation in initiatives like Har Ghar Tiranga and Vande Mataram reflects a region “shedding its past and moving towards a bright future,” even if this transformation “causes discomfort to some.”
The event witnessed a massive turnout, with more than 20,000 people joining in the mass singing of Vande Mataram. The second phase of celebrations will begin on January 9, 2026, and is being organised by the Department of Culture.
