There has been a noticeable transformation in the ground situation in the UT of Jammu and Kashmir, a substantial improvement in the security environment. The Lieutenant Governor has aptly summarised the present situation of the UT while addressing a gathering at the Maha Navmi event.
The Government possesses an astute comprehension of the current state of affairs in Jammu and Kashmir. The undeniable fact is that the ground situation has witnessed a profound and comprehensive metamorphosis. The days post-Burhan Wani, as well as the occurrences of stone pelting, frequent shutdowns, and the imposition of hartal calendars, are now events of the past. Our agencies have laboured assiduously to scrutinise the situation meticulously. They’ve devised a precise plan, utilising a specific strategy that has been diligently executed over the past few years. The abrogation of Article 370 has indeed dealt a decisive blow to the very lifeline of terrorism in the region. With all hawala operators under the watchful gaze of the Government and subject to the full force of the law, the previously easy flow of finances has been decisively curtailed. The corollary of this is the noticeable absence of stone-pelting and shutdowns. All troublemakers, including separatist leaders associated with the Hurriyat, are presently incarcerated and their assets seized under court orders. The net outcome of these measures is the marginal presence of local terrorists, who, in their frustration, have targeted minority community employees and businessmen in an attempt to instil fear. The Government has deftly countered this situation as well. It is manifestly clear that security cannot be individually extended to every citizen, but consistent adherence to SOPs has mitigated significant risks.
Kashmir epitomises the essence of Kashmir Shaivism, and the region is intrinsically incomplete without the return of the Kashmiri Pandits. The Government is diligently advancing the step-by-step rehabilitation of this community. The initial phase encompasses the provision of safeguarded accommodations for minority migrant employees, with protected transit lodgings being constructed. The Government is cognizant of the potential for disruption in this rehabilitation process by Pakistan, but it remains steadfastly prepared to confront any challenges that may arise. Nearly three and a half decades have elapsed since the mass migration of the Kashmiri Pandits. Kashmir is now in the throes of an extensive transformation. Development initiatives are well underway, administrative accountability is being underscored, and there are concerted efforts to provide seamless services to the citizens of the UT.
Kashmir can never be complete without the Kashmiri Pandits, and the gradual realignment of circumstances is steadily facilitating this reunification. Much has been achieved over the past few years, with certain accomplishments that were scarcely conceivable half a decade ago. These accomplishments are the fruit of a resolute Government and the unwavering dedication of our security agencies, bolstered by the active support of the people. At this current juncture, it is plausible to anticipate that within the coming years, the resolution of these longstanding issues will be realised.