Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha stated that while the government and security forces are proactive, ending terrorism is fundamentally a responsibility of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Speaking at an event in the Union territory, he urged community members to refrain from any actions that might spark renewed violence.
During his address on Saturday, Sinha pointed out significant progress in reducing terrorism across India, noting that such activities are now concentrated in fewer areas. “Terrorism has been nearly eradicated in many parts of the country. The North-East is largely terror-free, and we expect to eliminate left-wing extremism soon,” he remarked.
Sinha singled out regions like Karnataka, Kerala, and Jammu and Kashmir as historically affected by terrorism. He stressed that terrorism remains the biggest obstacle to development and job creation. “Security forces are doing their part, but the Jammu and Kashmir community must also act responsibly to ensure peace,” he added.
The Lieutenant Governor highlighted improvements in the current situation in Jammu and Kashmir, declaring that street violence and stone-pelting incidents have sharply declined. “Schools, colleges, and businesses are now operating normally, much like the rest of India,” he asserted, emphasizing that no major terror group leaders remain at large and only one local recruitment has occurred this year.
Regarding Pakistan’s ongoing support for terror activities, Sinha acknowledged that despite success in combatting terrorism, challenges remain. He stated, “We have a neighbor that persists in its malfeasance. Since its formation, Pakistan has attacked India rather than focusing on building its own nation.”
Sinha elaborated on Pakistan’s history of aggression, noting that they have lost four direct conflicts with India and now resort to proxy warfare by radicalizing individuals. “Over 40,000 lives have been lost to terrorism; we must ask ourselves how long it will continue,” he emphasized.
He reiterated that, while the government and security forces hold a significant duty in combating terrorism, the community should also actively participate in fostering peace. Sinha warned against statements that could inadvertently echo those of terrorist organizations, such as the Resistance Front (TRF). “When our narratives align with those promoted by terror groups, it poses a significant threat,” he cautioned.
Sinha’s remarks aim to galvanize community action against terrorism while recognizing the historical and geopolitical complexities that contribute to the issue. As Jammu and Kashmir continues to evolve, the call for collective responsibility echoes a broader national discourse on the fight against terrorism.
