Aug 5, 2019 marked new beginning for J&K: Sinha

Terror ecosystem dismantled to a large extent; PM committed to doubling hydropower generation by 2028

Srinagar, Aug 5: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Wednesday described August 5, 2019 as a historic day that marked a constitutional correction and a new beginning for Jammu and Kashmir, saying it ended discriminatory laws and ushered in an era of equal rights, justice and development.

Addressing a function held to distribute appointment letters to eligible family members of civilian terror victims, the Lieutenant Governor said the transformation witnessed in Jammu and Kashmir since August 5, 2019 was the result of the constitutional changes that removed discriminatory barriers and fully implemented the principle of “One Nation, One Constitution.”

He said that after the abrogation of Article 370, the administration had dismantled the terror ecosystem to a large extent, strengthened law and order, restored equal rights and created opportunities for people to rebuild their lives with confidence.

Highlighting the impact of the reforms, Sinha said marginalized communities, including tribals, displaced persons from PoK and Chhamb, and refugees, had received legal rights such as full citizenship, voting rights and property ownership. He added that farmers, artisans, educational institutions and research centres were contributing to new opportunities and preparing the youth for global competition.

The Lieutenant Governor said Article 370 and Article 35A had enabled the terror ecosystem to flourish, but after their abrogation, attempts by Pakistan and terror groups to destabilize the region had been foiled. He said the people of Jammu and Kashmir had chosen peace, education, employment and dignity over violence and separatism.

Reaffirming the government’s resolve, Sinha said justice for terror victims was a national obligation and assured that no affected family would be ignored. He also warned those attempting to disrupt peace or influence the system with vested interests that strict action would be taken against them.

Calling August 5 a turning point, he said the day symbolised the end of discrimination and the beginning of inclusive development. He added that Jammu and Kashmir had witnessed unprecedented industrial growth after 2019, with investments of Rs 5,824 crore recorded in 2025-26, nearly 13 times the average investment before 2021. He also highlighted improved connectivity, including the Kashmir-to-Kanyakumari rail link and the expansion of Jammu and Srinagar airports.

The Lieutenant Governor said Prime Minister Narendra Modi was committed to doubling Jammu and Kashmir’s hydroelectric power generation by 2028 while ensuring sustained peace, development and prosperity across the Union Territory.