Separatist Ecosystem In ICU, But Must Be Eliminated: J&K LG Manoj Sinha At News18 Event

Last Updated:September 28, 2025, 14:38 IST

Speaking at the Pride of Jammu & Kashmir awards organised by News18JKLH, Manoj Sinha said that the region has achieved remarkable progress under the leadership of PM Modi

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha at the Pride of Jammu & Kashmir awards organised by News18JKLH.

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday sent out a strong message against separatism, terrorism, and forces trying to disrupt peace in the Union Territory.

Speaking at the Pride of Jammu & Kashmir awards organised by News18JKLH, he said that while the region has achieved remarkable progress under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, there are still elements who attempt to mislead and incite citizens.

“It is true that under the leadership of our Hon’ble Prime Minister, the progress that Jammu and Kashmir has achieved in just a few years could not be achieved in the past seven decades. But even now, there are elements in society who incite innocent citizens by arousing emotions. It is the responsibility of the enlightened members of society to confront and expose such people,” the LG said.

‘Separatist ecosystem must be eliminated’

The LG underlined that separatist forces had been weakened but needed to be completely rooted out. “The ecosystem of separatist elements is now in ICU, but we must ensure that not a single separatist element remains alive in society. There is an old saying that one dirty fish spoils the entire pond. I believe that one separatist element destroys the peace and prosperity of the entire society,” he remarked.

He urged people to actively report such elements to the police so that they can face the “strictest punishment under the law”. He also made a pointed appeal to those who hold or have held constitutional positions, asking them to stop provoking public emotions and instead contribute positively to nation-building.

A changing Jammu and Kashmir

Reflecting on the transformation of the last five to six years, the LG noted how the region’s morale, once broken by cross-border terrorism and separatism, has been restored.

“Lal Chowk had a different identity, and Pulwama was only known for terrorism. Today, the tricolour waving high at Lal Chowk symbolises the aspirations of a new Jammu and Kashmir. Today, the youth on the streets of Pulwama are raising their voices against terrorism and separatism. After the Pahalgam attack, the entire Jammu and Kashmir rose against terrorism. I believe this is no small change,” he said.

He credited the “winds of change” to the resilience of society and the determination of the youth, who are now rejecting separatist narratives and embracing development.

‘Free hand to crush terrorism’

Reiterating the government’s uncompromising stance against terror, the LG said that the Army, security agencies, and Jammu and Kashmir Police have been given a “free hand” to destroy terror networks.

“I have full faith in their valour, and the day is not far when Jammu and Kashmir will be completely free from terrorism,” he said, praising the security forces for their sacrifices and courage.

Citizens’ role in securing peace

Calling peace the foundation of development, the LG reminded citizens that they too bear responsibility in the fight against terror. “Without peace, development is impossible. That is why I believe it is also the responsibility of the citizens to support our police forces and army personnel in the fight against terrorism. We must wipe away the stain of terrorism and separatism from society. Only then will we be able to build a golden Jammu and Kashmir for future generations,” he said.

Saluting the pride of Jammu & Kashmir

Concluding his address, the LG once again congratulated the awardees who were honoured for their service, sacrifice, and courage.

Quoting the Atharvaveda, he said: “Kritam me dakshine haste, jayo me savya āhatiḥ” — meaning, may there be hard work in my right hand and victory in my left.

“For all the honoured warriors of service, I wish the same — hard work and victory,” the LG said, saluting them as an inspiration for society.

About the Author

Tejinder Singh Sodhi

A defence journalist, Tejinder Singh Sodhi has the distinction of being the only Indian civilian to have studied at the US Army Command and General Staff College at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. In his career span…Read More

A defence journalist, Tejinder Singh Sodhi has the distinction of being the only Indian civilian to have studied at the US Army Command and General Staff College at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. In his career span… Read More

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