Peace, unity, and opportunity now define J&K’s transformation: LG
Srinagar, Nov 5:
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Wednesday said that the echoes of violence in Jammu and Kashmir have been replaced by the sounds of music and laughter, marking a historic transformation in the region over the past six years. He urged citizens to honour the sacrifices of security forces and civilians who restored peace and stability in the Union Territory.
Delivering the keynote address at a two-day International Symposium on “Peace, People and Possibilities in Jammu & Kashmir Union Territory,” LG Sinha remarked, “During the past five to six years, a new Jammu and Kashmir has been built where the echoes of bullets and grenades have been replaced by the sounds of music. The walls of schools are no longer terrified by the sound of stones — today, they resound with the laughter of students.”
Referring to Pulwama and Shopian districts, once considered sensitive zones, the LG said these areas have now emerged as vibrant hubs of education and opportunity. “Roads that once stood deserted are alive again, and fields that were once blood-soaked are now flourishing,” he observed.
Highlighting the revival of Srinagar’s social and commercial life, the LG said, “Polo View and Lal Chowk, which were once deserted, are now bustling with activity. What could not change in thirty years has transformed in just five to six years — and that was no easy task.”
Sinha described Jammu and Kashmir as an abode of harmony, where people of all faiths and communities have lived together for centuries. “We must preserve this legacy of unity and brotherhood and remember the contributions of our ancestors, security forces, and ordinary citizens who laid down their lives for peace,” he said.
Underscoring that peace has returned to J&K after immense sacrifice, he asserted, “Peace cannot exist without the rule of law, and without peace, development is impossible. Everyone must respect the law to ensure lasting stability.”
The Lieutenant Governor cautioned against those trying to disturb the hard-earned peace. “Even today, there are remnants of the terror ecosystem who, by speaking in the language of Pakistan, seek to create unrest. We must identify and expose such elements and ensure they find no space in our society,” he warned.
Recalling the locals’ spontaneous protests against terrorism following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, Sinha said it sent a powerful message of collective rejection of violence. “This is the new Jammu and Kashmir — where people stand united against terror,” he emphasized.
Calling for empathy and cooperation as the foundation of peace, the LG said, “Sympathy and understanding towards one another are essential for lasting peace.” He credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership for guiding J&K toward “a future defined by harmony, growth, and opportunity.”
Applauding the theme of the international symposium, Peace, People and Possibilities, Sinha said it reflects a deeply thoughtful and forward-looking vision. “The voice of Dal Lake and the whisper of the Chinar trees together influence peace,” he said poetically, adding that true peace means living freely, with dignity, and in harmony with oneself and others.
“Real peace,” he explained, “exists when people can live without fear or loss, and when dialogue and mutual respect form the foundation of society. Today, peace is visible in J&K — in the dignity of ordinary citizens and in their growing opportunities. The common Kashmiri has become the symbol of this peace — shaping it through hard work, resilience, and collective progress.”
Sinha said that when people overcome differences and work together, they build the path to unity and prosperity. “Kindness, cooperation, and compassion are the true strengths of our people,” he remarked, adding that peace, community, and possibility can transform any land into a garden of hope. “The power of unity builds a society where innovation and creativity thrive.”
“The convergence of peace, people, and possibilities ensures that new energy and purpose reach every citizen,” he said, quoting Indian saints and thinkers to underline the timeless message of harmony. “The time has come to rediscover the path envisioned by Yogini Lalleshwari and others — to live in harmony and fulfil the nation’s aspirations with dedication,” he noted.
Invoking Rabindranath Tagore, the LG said his teachings must continue to guide lives and institutions. “Our Rishis in the Yajurveda taught that we must see one another with the spirit of friendship. For sustainable peace and progress, we must advance with values, harmony, and brotherhood,” he added.
Paying homage to the sacrifices of Army, JKP personnel, and civilians who laid down their lives for peace, Sinha said their supreme sacrifice would always inspire future generations. “Our efforts for peace must never cease,” he stressed.
Calling upon citizens, innovators, scientists, doctors, police, civil administrators, and the armed forces to work as one unit, he said, “We must remain vigilant against challenges to peace and development. Our youth must stay away from radicalization and drugs.”
Reaffirming his government’s resolve to dismantle the remaining terror ecosystem, LG Sinha said the administration is committed to ensuring peace, justice, and equitable growth. “We are determined to strengthen socio-economic development and turn the dreams of our youth into reality,” he said.
“The people of Jammu and Kashmir are the heartbeat of peace,” Sinha concluded. “All sections of society must stand united against those attempting to disrupt harmony, and together, we must safeguard the spirit of progress and prosperity that defines the new Jammu and Kashmir.”
