We did not buy peace; we established peace in J&K: LG Manoj Sinha on UT Foundation Day

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha during J and K UT Foundation Day at SKICC in Srinagar on October 31, 2026. Photo: LG office via PTI.

Addressing the 8th Foundation Day of the Union Territory of J&K and the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, J&K Lt. Governor Manoj Sinha said that the abrogation of Article 370 has given common citizens freedom from fear and access to rights denied to them for decades. However, no ruling party leader or minister attended the foundation day ceremony. “We didn’t buy peace, we made peace. The zero tolerance policy crippled terror networks and restored normal life across J&K. Since 2020, over 780 terrorists have been eliminated, local recruitment ended, stone pelting wiped out. Now Jammu and Kashmir is witnessing a historic security transformation.” He said terror, separatism and stone pelting gave way to democracy, development and public participation after Article 370 was removed. “Strong action against narco-terrorism continues. We have arrested thousands of drug smugglers and drug dealers this year. Their illegal assets have been seized and drug-financed houses have been demolished. Conflict businessmen who have profited from separatism and terrorism are being exposed. The people of J&K have embraced peace, progress and national integration,” said Mr. Terming October 31 “is not just a date”, Mr Sinha said, “It is a milestone that has changed the course of history and strengthened the spirit of national integration, equality and inclusive development. The abrogation of Article 370 has given ordinary citizens freedom from fear and access to rights denied to them for decades. J&K has emerged as a model of peace, development and good governance,” said Mr S. Referring to the aspirations of the people, Mr Sharma said the future of J&K must to be shaped by peace, equal opportunities and development. “The future of Jammu and Kashmir lies not in the shadow of terror but in the light of peace; not behind the walls of discrimination but in equal opportunities; and not in stagnation but in the pace of progress,” he added. The Lieutenant Governor stressed that unity is maintained by fairness and public trust. “Public trust must be won not only by promises but also by actions. Justice and responsibility are the strongest foundations of unity,” he said. Mr. Sinha emphasized the need to ensure that growth remains inclusive and reaches every household, village and community. “Children and youth grow up in an environment focused on education, opportunity and progress, enabling them to contribute meaningfully to nation building. A stable and peaceful environment benefits every section of society, including farmers, entrepreneurs, traders, students and workers,” said Mr. Sinha. He expressed satisfaction that the people of J&K are increasingly involved in development initiatives and contributing to the growth story of the region. “My dream is that by 2047, J&K should emerge as a model of prosperity with a modern economy, world-class healthcare, excellent education and a vibrant cultural heritage,” said Mr. Sinha. Meanwhile, a documentary on the transformational journey of J&K was also screened. The event was attended by BJP leader and J&K Waqf Board Chairman, Dr. Syed Darakhshan Andrabi; Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo; Director General of Police Nalin Prabhat etc. However, no leader from the regional parties including the ruling National Conference attended these functions. Meanwhile, speaking on ‘Rashtriya Ekta Diwas’, Mr. Sinha gave the ‘Unity Pledge’ to Lok Bhavan officials, staff and security personnel.

Published – 01 Nov 2026 02:06 IST