Daijiworld Media Network - Srinagar
Srinagar, Jul 19: Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Sunday said that religious harmony and peaceful coexistence are essential for building a strong society, a progressive Jammu and Kashmir, and a developed India.
Addressing an Interfaith Dialogue for Harmony in Baramulla, organised by the Save Youth Save Future Foundation, Sinha praised the organisation for its efforts in supporting the campaign against drug abuse in the Union Territory.
He lauded the dedication of young volunteers, saying their selfless work had strengthened public confidence and demonstrated the power of community-led initiatives.
According to the Lieutenant Governor, the anti-drug campaign has reinforced trust within families and institutions while inspiring young people to believe in a better future. He said the initiative had also conveyed a message across the country that societies can overcome even the toughest challenges when people come together with a common purpose.
Highlighting Jammu and Kashmir's long tradition of communal harmony, Sinha said the region has for centuries been a symbol of brotherhood, where people of different faiths have lived together with mutual respect and spiritual understanding.
He credited the teachings of saints, Sufis and Rishis for nurturing this tradition, referring to spiritual figures such as Lal Ded and Sheikh-ul-Alam, whose messages of compassion, unity and service transcended religious boundaries.
Sinha said the Rishi-Sufi tradition of Kashmir does not promote the supremacy of any one religion but instead teaches that all faiths draw strength from the same universal existence.
He described this shared spiritual legacy as belonging equally to Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, Buddhists, Christians and every citizen of the country, stressing that preserving this heritage is both a moral and spiritual responsibility.
The Lieutenant Governor said social and religious harmony forms the foundation for economic growth, inclusive development and long-term prosperity. He added that promoting equal respect for all religions would ensure equal opportunities for every citizen.
He also called for greater unity to tackle social challenges such as poverty and drug addiction, emphasising that mutual goodwill and fraternity are essential for creating a healthier society.
Addressing the gathering, Sinha said India has long demonstrated that people of different communities, faiths and traditions can coexist peacefully, and expressed hope that Baramulla would send this message of unity to the rest of the world.
He also encouraged young people to have confidence in their abilities and play an active role in shaping the future of Jammu and Kashmir.
During his visit to Baramulla, the Lieutenant Governor met several public delegations, heard their grievances and assured them that appropriate action would be taken on the issues raised.