Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
Srinagar, Jun 29: Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Sunday assured families of terrorism victims that their long wait for justice is coming to an end. Speaking at a gathering in Anantnag, where he met numerous families who lost loved ones to terrorism, Sinha emphasized the administration's renewed commitment to deliver justice and restore dignity to those who suffered in silence.
Addressing the event organized by ‘Save Youth, Save Future’, Sinha said, “A peaceful environment has finally been created, enabling the victims of terrorism and the terror ecosystem to voice their pain. I’m here to tell you that your wait for justice is over.”
He urged families who were denied compassionate government jobs due to a relative's death in terror-related incidents to submit their applications to district magistrates within a few days. He promised swift action: “Such families will be given compassionate appointments within 30 days.”
Additionally, he offered financial support for self-employment under the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana, stating that eligible youth from these families will receive assistance without any collateral.
Sinha also announced that any terrorist or sympathizer still holding a government job will face strict action. “If someone involved in such crimes is still employed, the family should inform the IGP, and that individual will be dismissed and prosecuted,” he said.
The Lt Governor invited property owners to reclaim assets taken over by terrorists or their associates. “If your property is occupied, inform the administration — we will help you take it back,” he said, instructing district magistrates and SSPs to register and address such grievances promptly.
Sinha used the opportunity to draw a contrast between India’s development and Pakistan’s state-sponsored terrorism, stating: “While India is building highways, providing free food and healthcare, and becoming the fourth-largest economy, Pakistan is struggling to feed its citizens and ranks as the world’s biggest beggar country.”
He also reiterated the government's tough stance post the April 22 Pahalgam attack, referencing Operation Sindoor, during which Indian forces reportedly destroyed terror bases in Pakistan. “If Pakistan engages in any further acts of terrorism, India will treat it as an act of war,” Sinha warned.
The Lt Governor condemned the false narratives propagated over the years that portrayed terrorists as victims and security forces as oppressors. He acknowledged the silencing of victims, many of whom struggled to find even a burial ground for their loved ones.
He urged people to expose those who had once supported terrorism but now live as "respectable citizens" in society. “We’ve listened to your painful stories today. It’s time the truth reaches the nation and the world,” he said, appreciating the efforts of the event’s organizers for unearthing stories long buried under fear and suppression.
Earlier in the day, several family members shared personal stories of trauma and loss from the insurgency period starting in 1990, recounting years of neglect, intimidation, and the marginalization of victims' voices.
Sinha concluded with a message of hope and action: “We are determined to restore justice, dignity, and opportunity to those who suffered during one of the darkest chapters in Kashmir’s history.”