Examiner Bureau | Srinagar:
Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Sunday assured people that there was no need to panic over attempts to disturb peace in the Union Territory, asserting that the administration and security forces were fully committed to maintaining peace and preventing any disruption.
Sinha was responding to concerns raised at a programme of displaced Kashmiri Pandits over the security of Kashmiri Pandit employees working in the Valley in the wake of recent terror incidents.
“There are many challenges, including the one you mentioned. But I believe there are even bigger challenges that we have to address,” Sinha said while speaking at the annual-day function of the Kashmiri Pandit Volunteers (KPV).
Referring to the significant change in the security and social environment of Jammu and Kashmir, Sinha said one of the biggest challenges in the past was the perception that people would be unwilling to carry the national flag in the Union Territory.
“But you have seen today that there are so many shoulders—and such strong shoulders—ready to carry the Tricolour. What you have witnessed today is a powerful example of that change,” he said.
Addressing concerns over recent terror incidents and attempts to disturb the peaceful atmosphere, the Lieutenant Governor acknowledged that such efforts were being made but maintained that the situation was under control.
“Attempts are being made to disturb the atmosphere again. There is no need to worry. The necessary concerns are being addressed, and this has not started today; such efforts have been underway for some time,” Sinha said.
He also cautioned people against rumours and sought to reassure the public that security agencies were closely monitoring the situation.
“There are also people who spread rumours. I assure you that the administration and security forces are fully committed to maintaining peace. Anyone who attempts to disrupt the prevailing peace will not be allowed to succeed in their designs,” he said.
On demands for enhancement of relief and other measures for the displaced Kashmiri Pandit community, Sinha said the government was making continuous efforts to address issues that could be resolved.
“I would like to say, with a full sense of responsibility, that efforts have been made to find a solution and these efforts are continuing,” he said.
He acknowledged that while some issues could be resolved immediately, others might require more time.
“While some issues can be resolved, others cannot be addressed immediately. Nevertheless, continuous efforts are being made to resolve all matters that can be addressed at the earliest,” the LG said.
The remarks came after KPV founder Vikram Kaul raised several concerns in his address.
Kaul urged the government and the Lieutenant Governor not to restore statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, citing security concerns and the challenges facing the Union Territory. He also called for an enhancement in the monthly relief provided to displaced Kashmiri Pandits.
He further sought long-term security arrangements for Kashmiri Pandit employees working in the Valley, particularly in view of recent terror attacks and threats.
The LG’s assurance comes amid renewed concerns within the Kashmiri Pandit community over the safety of its employees in the Valley, with Sinha stressing that the administration and security forces would continue to take necessary measures to protect peace and prevent attempts to revive fear and instability.
