Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has called upon the people of the Union Territory to remain vigilant against the disruptive efforts of a "neighbouring country," in an apparent reference to Pakistan, and elements within J&K attempting to derail the region's progress. Speaking at the valedictory function of the Islamic University of Science and Technology's (IUST) foundation day in Srinagar on Wednesday, Sinha stressed the need for unity to protect the dreams and aspirations of the region's youth.
Sinha highlighted the transformation of Jammu and Kashmir over the past five to six years, noting that the "sounds of guns have been replaced by the laughter of children and the hum of education". He added that unprecedented progress has been made in a short period, with significant strides in infrastructure development, including roads and schools, which now reflect growth and prosperity.
The Lieutenant Governor credited the sacrifices of soldiers, police, and civilians for the hard-earned peace and urged citizens to safeguard it through law, cooperation, and community spirit. He specifically called on the youth to reject radicalization, drugs, and the influence of propaganda backed by Pakistan. Sinha emphasized that while the administration is committed to peace and prosperity, achieving this goal requires the public's active support in combating terrorism. He urged people to provide timely information to police and security agencies to help uproot the menace completely.
Sinha's remarks come amid intensified operations by Jammu and Kashmir police against terror support networks and the Jamaat-e-Islami. Recent operations involved searches at over 200 locations in South Kashmir's Kulgam district and the questioning of over 500 people, including a doctor, following the unearthing of a "white-collar" terror network.
The Lieutenant Governor has consistently maintained that Pakistan is attempting to destabilize Jammu and Kashmir and sow discord among communities. In July 2025, he termed Pakistan a "terrorist country" determined to undo the progress made in the region. He has also asserted that the only way to defeat the enemy's agenda is through unity and collective resistance.
Sinha has repeatedly emphasized the importance of public vigilance in dismantling the terrorism ecosystem. He has urged citizens to collaborate with security forces in identifying and neutralizing elements supporting terror. He reiterated that terrorism remains the greatest enemy of peace, development, and the aspirations of Jammu and Kashmir's youth.
Highlighting the surge in enrollment, Sinha noted that applications to IUST rose from 3,000 in 2021 to 7,600 in 2025, with greater diversity from across J&K and beyond. He also pointed out the significant increase in the university's external funding and the growth of its startup ecosystem.
The Lieutenant Governor has also been actively involved in reviewing the security situation in Jammu and Kashmir. In a high-level security review meeting in Srinagar on November 11, 2025, he directed all security and intelligence agencies to maintain constant vigil and ensure seamless coordination at every operational level. The review covered counter-infiltration measures, anti-militancy operations, and actions to curb narco-terror and hybrid militancy.
