SRINAGAR, Nov 4: Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha addressed the first-ever legislative assembly of the Union Territory on Monday, highlighting the significance of the recent assembly elections and the strong desire for the restoration of statehood.
In his inaugural speech, Sinha noted that the high voter turnout was a testament to the people’s enduring faith in the democratic process, especially in areas that had previously experienced separatist sentiments. “We gather here after the successful culmination of elections after a decade,” he stated.
While celebrating the electoral participation, Sinha acknowledged that the aspiration for statehood remains a pivotal issue for the residents of Jammu and Kashmir. “Prime Minister Modi has reiterated the commitment for the restoration of J-K’s statehood at the earliest. My government will make efforts for the restoration of statehood and create an enabling atmosphere for development,” he affirmed.
He also mentioned that the council of ministers recently passed a unanimous resolution advocating for the return of statehood, emphasizing the need for collaboration among all stakeholders to realize this goal. Sinha expressed that the people have high hopes from the government and urged all parties to support the government in fulfilling the aspirations of the populace.
Furthermore, he reaffirmed the government’s dedication to enhancing political empowerment and announced initiatives, including the provision of 200 units of electricity per household. “We are working on the modalities, and we are committed to making Jammu and Kashmir self-sufficient in electricity by the year 2026 through the exploitation of hydel electric resources,” he concluded.
