Calls It a Major Achievement for J&K, Credits Visible Development, Peace, and Prosperity
Supreme Court’s Verdict on Article 370 Is Final”—LG Dismisses Restoration Demands as Rhetoric
Suhail Khan
Srinagar, July 20: Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha stated that residents of the Union Territory have finally recognized the substantial development, peace, prosperity, and progress occurring on the ground. This shift, he noted, has redirected youth conversations from demands for ‘Azadi’ to discussions about employment opportunities.
In an interview with national media, as per Kashmir Despatch, LG Sinha remarked, “With genuine development work happening at the grassroots level, our youth are now focused on employment rather than repeating Pakistan-backed ‘Azadi’ slogans.” He described this transformation as a significant milestone, emphasizing that young people have abandoned stone-pelting in favor of pursuing livelihoods.
While acknowledging that government jobs cannot be guaranteed to everyone—a universal reality—LG Sinha highlighted Jammu and Kashmir’s remarkable employment growth in recent years. Multiple sectors including industry, agriculture, tourism, and self-employment initiatives have generated substantial opportunities. Over 900,000 women have joined self-help groups, while exports of local products like carpets, Pashmina, handicrafts, and handloom items have doubled, creating widespread employment across the UT.
As he approaches five years in office, Sinha outlined his administration’s progress in establishing peace and development. He contrasted the current situation with past years when Kashmir would shut down at Pakistan’s instigation. “That era is permanently over—no more stone-pelting, no more forced shutdowns. After three decades, Muharram processions have returned, cinema halls operate freely, and educational institutions and businesses have functioned uninterrupted for five years,” he stated. The revival of nightlife across Kashmir, with extended business hours and vibrant public activity, has injected new energy into the region.
Regarding Article 370, LG Sinha was unequivocal: “The Supreme Court’s decision is final—there’s no going back. Those advocating for its restoration are merely engaging in empty rhetoric.”
He detailed the post-370 roadmap implemented by the central government: “Following the August 2019 reorganization, Home Minister Amit Shah established a clear three-phase plan—delimitation, elections, and eventual statehood restoration. The first two phases are complete, with peaceful assembly elections recording historic turnout. Statehood will be granted when conditions permit.”
Sinha emphasized Jammu and Kashmir’s strengthened integration with India while noting the region’s unique security considerations. “As a frontier region facing persistent cross-border threats, we maintain necessary security protocols,” he explained, citing Pakistan’s continued use of terrorism as state policy. However, he expressed complete confidence in India’s security forces to counter any threats.
The administration has prioritized support for terrorism victims, Sinha noted. During recent visits, he encountered families who had waited decades for justice or compensation. “We’ve already provided government jobs to 40 such individuals and are systematically addressing pending cases through a comprehensive approach combining legal support, financial assistance, and employment opportunities,” he said.
Addressing the recent Pahalgam terror attack’s impact on tourism, Sinha confirmed initial declines but reported strong recovery during the Amarnath Yatra. “We’re confident pilgrims will share positive experiences, accelerating tourism’s full revival,” he stated, noting bustling activity in Pahalgam, Sonamarg, and Srinagar as indicators of returning normalcy.
The Lieutenant Governor’s office celebrated the pilgrimage’s success in a social media post: “By Baba Amarnath’s grace, the yatra has crossed 300,000 participants. This sacred journey enriches all who undertake it. May His blessings bring peace and strength to everyone. Har Har Mahadev!”
The 38-day Amarnath Yatra 2025 will conclude on August 5 (coinciding with Raksha Bandhan and Shravan Purnima). Pilgrims continue arriving via both traditional routes, supported by unprecedented security and infrastructure measures.
Over 50,000 personnel from the Shri Amarnath Shrine Board (SASB) and J&K administration—including security forces, medical teams, and disaster response units—ensure pilgrim safety. Upgrades like widened paths, oxygen stations, RFID tracking, and improved accommodations have transformed the pilgrimage experience.
Despite the pre-yatra terror attack, the event has proceeded smoothly, buoyed by enthusiastic local support as residents warmly welcome pilgrims throughout the region.
