‘No political effort, promise required for Statehood’
Fayaz Bukhari
Srinagar, Nov 5: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today said that restoration of Statehood is as certain as the Sun rising from the East and made it clear that no political efforts or promises are required to fulfil the commitment.
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The LG made these remarks while addressing Raabt-e-Awaaam program organised by the Save Youth Save Future Foundation in North Kashmir’s Baramulla district in response to the National Conference’s repeated pledges to restore Statehood.
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“The assurance that the Government gives in the Parliamentary session is as true as The Sun rising from the East,” he said.
Sinha said that the issue is unnecessarily being debated by politicians. “Home Minister Amit Shah is on record on the floor of the Parliament that first Delimitation then Assembly polls and then Statehood at an appropriate time. Anything stated on the floor of the House is binding on the Government and the statement is as true as the Sun rises from the East,” he added.
The LG said that on June 21 this year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reiterated the commitment of restoring the Statehood to J&K. “But politicians have a different job…,” he added.
Sinha said that the houses of those providing shelter to terrorists will be razed to rubble and there will be no mercy for those who kill innocents.
The LG said that the administration led by him will take strict action against those shielding terrorists.
“Peace is imperative for development. Some people are trying to disturb peace in J&K. Our neighbour is trying to disrupt peace and that’s not the issue for us but some people sitting here are acting on the dictations from across and that’s a concern,” he said.
Sinha said those who were constructing the Z-Morh tunnel got killed for no reason. “Nobody has the right to take the lives of these innocent lives. If people won’t rise against this inhuman act, this will continue. I have repeatedly stated that innocents won’t be touched but criminals will not be spared.”
The LG said those providing shelter to terrorists will see their house getting razed to rubble. “I say this with full authority. Not just the forces and the administration, people have to play their role as well,” he said.
Without naming anyone, he said some people are beating chests and that “atrocities are happening in Kashmir.” “This is not an atrocity but the best way to ensure justice. This will continue till terrorism is eradicated completely,” he added.
The LG said that 40,000 people lost lives in J&K. “Sisters lost their brothers, mothers’ their sons and wives their husbands,” he said. The LG said security forces are following the guidelines and no innocent person is being punished.
Sinha said that they are committed to empower the youth of J&K and provide them necessary opportunities and facilities to unlock their potential for a better tomorrow.
The LG assured the talented youth that their empowerment is amongst foremost priorities of the Government.
“Our youth as fearless force 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 Jammu Kashmir,” he said.
The LG called upon the youth to work with team spirit while following the ideals and values of the founding fathers of the country for 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 ‘Viksit Bharat’ and a joyous, peaceful, prosperous Jammu Kashmir,” he said.
Among the many challenges facing the youth is the challenge of drug addiction, Sinha said adding, “Drug-free J&K is a step to ensure our youth realize their true potential and with hard work shape their tomorrow.”
During the interactive session in the programme, the young panelists from diverse backgrounds shared their views on the present scenario and transformational journey of Jammu Kashmir.
Responding to the issues and demands put forth by the youth, civil society members and various sections of society, the Lt Governor assured that appropriate action will be taken to redress the genuine issue projected by them.
On the occasion, the Lt Governor felicitated the young achievers, social workers and prominent citizens for their contribution to the society.
Vijay Kumar Bidhuri, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir; Vidhi Kumar Birdi, IGP Kashmir; Maqsood-Ul-Zaman, DIG NKR Baramulla; Minga Sherpa, Deputy Commissioner Baramulla; Wajahat Farooq Bhat, Chairman, Save Youth Save Future Foundation, prominent citizens, members of Save Youth Save Future Foundation and youth in large number were present.