 |
|
In a significant address to the newly elected Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha assured the members of the Omar Abdullah government's commitment to restoring full statehood and the constitutional guarantees previously enjoyed by the state. He emphasized that this restoration would serve as a fitting reciprocation for the trust placed in democratic institutions by the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Sinha highlighted the strong public aspiration for statehood, pointing out that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has repeatedly pledged his support for this goal. The recent unanimous resolution passed by the Council of Ministers calling for the immediate restoration of statehood further reflects the collective will of elected representatives and echoes the aspirations of the people for a fully functioning democratic governance.
Sinha underscored the high voter turnout in the recent assembly elections as a testament to the enduring faith of the people in the democratic process. He acknowledged the significance of these elections, the first since the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019 and the reorganization of J-K into a Union Territory, as a crucial milestone in restoring democratic governance after a period of political uncertainty. He particularly emphasized the high turnout in regions traditionally marginalized by separatist sentiments as a clear indication of the people's commitment to democratic participation as a means to voice their concerns and aspirations.
In addition to statehood restoration, Sinha outlined the government's commitment to the dignified rehabilitation of Kashmiri migrants in the valley. He assured the assembly that a safe and secure environment would be created to facilitate this process and that work on transit accommodation projects for Kashmiri migrant employees would be expedited to provide suitable housing at designated locations. Sinha also emphasized the government's commitment to ensuring inclusiveness and balanced development across all sections and regions of J&K. This commitment, he stressed, would be a solemn and sacred priority for his administration. He further announced plans to address vacancies in the government sector on a fast-track basis and expedite the process of compassionate appointments.
In his address, Sinha urged all stakeholders, including political parties, to work together as a unified team to fulfill the aspirations of the people. He underscored the importance of unity and shared purpose across all communities, institutions, and sections of society in this transformation. The government, he stated, would focus on implementing the promises made to the people for further political empowerment, creating an enabling environment for employment, promoting sustainable development, ensuring social inclusiveness, and expanding the economy to enhance the overall quality of life. This focus, Sinha emphasized, would be guided by three core principles: Economy, Ecology, and Equity, which would shape the future of Jammu and Kashmir. He concluded his address by reiterating his commitment to working collaboratively with all stakeholders to strengthen democratic institutions and provide the people with the governance and the future they deserve.
Source: J&K govt to make all efforts for restoration of full statehood, says LG Sinha in address to Assembly