Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has stated that there is no longer a need for the United Nations office in Srinagar, citing improved conditions in Jammu and Kashmir. However, he clarified that the decision rests with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
In an interview with a national news channel, Sinha was asked whether the UN office should be closed given the shift in focus from Jammu and Kashmir to Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK). “The issue is not in my domain. The External Affairs Ministry will be in a better position to decide. But there is no need for the UN office now in Srinagar,” he said.
Sinha underscored the priorities before the formation of an elected government in Jammu and Kashmir, emphasizing peace, development, investment, and employment. He stated that if the elected government aligns with this agenda, there will be no conflicts. When asked about the performance of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s government, he remarked that four months is too short a period for evaluation but acknowledged a good working relationship with the administration.
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Highlighting economic progress, Sinha noted that Jammu and Kashmir’s economy has doubled in recent years, per capita income has risen, and Jammu and Kashmir Bank has transitioned from a Rs 1,200 crore loss to a Rs 1,700 crore profit. He also announced that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will soon inaugurate the Kashmir train service, a major step in boosting connectivity and development.
On the return of Kashmiri Pandits, Sinha stated that most of their issues have been resolved, and they will return when peace is fully restored. Dismissing claims that peace in Kashmir is being “forced,” he pointed to the resurgence of Bollywood and Hollywood movie shootings, bustling cinema halls, booming tourism, and increased industrial investments as indicators of genuine stability.
He asserted that peace in Jammu and Kashmir has unsettled Pakistan, which is uncomfortable with the region’s progress. Sinha highlighted the peaceful conduct of elections and noted that no top militant commanders remain in the region, with local recruitment at its lowest level.
“People now walk along the Jhelum late at night, a clear sign of normality,” he said, crediting the transformation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, and the government.
On the termination of government employees allegedly linked to anti-national activities, Sinha maintained that the process would continue following due scrutiny. He also defended the government’s employment policies, stating that 40,000 jobs have been provided in a transparent and merit-based manner.
