Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha gave exclusive interview to P. Vaidyanathan Iyer after 5 years at his Raj Bhavan office in Srinagar.The interview has been exclusively talked about terrorist in Jammu and Kashmir and concern of local people.P. Vaidyanathan Iyer asked about changes that took charge while in position of Lieutenant Governor.He also addressed about challenges of local people and financial and economic status of Jammu and Kashmir.This interview clearly depicted the thought of Manoj Sinha over his rule and progress that has occurred over last 4 years . It gave a very clear view of the advancements made in Jammu and Kashmir. Some of the questions are as listed below:
1.It’s been 4 years since you took charge as Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir.How far have you progressed in achieving the objectives you set out ?
Manoj Sinha answered that he will not go into a long way but will stay in the recent 5 years.He told that status of Jammu and Kashmir has been changed, peace and prosperity has come into existence.Regular meetings had been held under the leadership of Narendra Modi and it has also been successful.This has provided equal opportunity to every citizen without any discrimination.All institutions such as schools, colleges, university, hospital are functioning well without any protest or stone-pelting. He further told to have a look on voter turnout of 58.46% in the last 35 years.People have come out of the slogans of the past.
Source:The Indian Express
2.How worried are you about the situation in Jammu, what are the challenges?
Manoj Sinha tried to cover up the whole story including all the military forces, terrorism and Pakistan’s intention towards it.He pointed out that the biggest challenge is local recruitment and also should confidence stating that strategy is in place.The army and the police will tackle it and it has been decided to give automatic weapons to VDC members. Home minister will be monitoring it closely. He also stated that situations are now under control and can be much more better than this. We are working towards it and will achieve it.
3.Where do you see the state economy and finances?
According to report the state GSDP has increased from rupees 159000 crore in 2018-2019 to rupees 45000 crore in 2023-24.The GST collections have risen from rupees 5134 crore to rupees 9700 crore during the period, excise collections from rupees 1219 crore to rupees 2400 crore; stamp duty collection from rupees 265 crore to rupees 650 crore. Their has been an investment in industrial area also of rupees 14000 crore which is much higher than earlier and is expected to be more until the new amendment occurs.
4. The policy of zero tolerance to terror in Kashmir is the reason for peace and calm?
Yes, the policy of zero tolerance to terror has definitely made a change in Srinagar as there is no violence on the streets.The common man can enjoy night life in the city.Many activities can be see in Lal chowk, Polo view and in front of the Jhelum river; music concerts are held and people are more relax as compared to earlier but it is also meant a hard clamp down on people. Besides all these , it has improvised people situation in all matters and provided a relief to them.
5. Journalist colleague continue to face problems with the administration questioning them often.
Regarding this, Manoj Sinha addressed that he will surely welcome constructive criticism,but they need to keep a note on a fine line in Jammu and Kashmir. The country’s security should not be put in jeopardy . Journalist friends are free to criticize, give suggestions and he would be happy to address it.
