Srinagar, August 15, 2025: On the occasion of India’s 79th Independence Day, Lieutenant Governor (LG) Manoj Sinha extended heartfelt greetings to the people of Jammu and Kashmir, proclaiming that democracy has become stronger in the Union Territory over the past five years. In a powerful message, he introduced a firm stance against terrorism, declaring, “India has drawn a new red line. Any act of terror will be considered an act of war and will be met with a fitting response.”LG Sinha saluted the tricolor and paid tribute to the nation’s freedom fighters, civilian martyrs of the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, and security personnel involved in operations like ‘Operation Sindoor’ and ‘Operation Mahadev.’ He emphasized the region’s progress, stating, “Jammu and Kashmir has received a strong development thrust in the past five years, emerging as a prosperous, peaceful, and just Union Territory that treats all citizens equally.”Highlighting democratic advancements, Sinha noted the enthusiastic participation in the Har Ghar Tiranga Abhiyan and Tiranga Yatra, describing them as symbols of national pride and unity.
“The patriotic fervor across Jammu and Kashmir is an inspiration for the country,” he said, crediting the strengthened democratic institutions for fostering self-confidence and nation-building.The LG underscored significant developmental milestones, including Kashmir’s integration into India’s rail network, robust industrial growth, and enhanced ease of living for urban and rural populations. “The benefits of unprecedented economic growth have reached all sections of society, empowering women, youth, and farmers,” he added, aligning his administration’s efforts with Mahatma Gandhi’s vision of an India where the poorest feel ownership.Addressing recent challenges, LG Sinha expressed condolences for families affected by the cloudburst in Chositi, Kishtwar, assuring a “whole of government” approach to provide relief and restore normalcy. He also reiterated a zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism, urging citizens to pledge for a terror-free Jammu and Kashmir.
“Let us foil the efforts of terrorists and dismantle their ecosystem,” he stated.Sinha praised the contributions of farmers, workers, teachers, youth, and Nari Shakti towards socio-economic growth, expressing confidence in their role in building a Viksit Bharat. He highlighted the successful conduct of peaceful elections, noting, “The recent Lok Sabha and assembly elections reflect the deep-rooted faith of 1.40 crore citizens in constitutional values.”Reflecting on his five-year tenure, Sinha emphasized that Jammu and Kashmir is “creating a new history by forgetting its troubled past.” He called for collective action to sustain peace and progress, concluding with a rallying cry: “Let us reaffirm our commitment to work shoulder-to-shoulder for a Viksit Bharat. Jai Hind! Jai Bharat!”
