Srinagar, Oct 21: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Wednesday issued a stark warning to supporters of terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir, declaring that their “days are over” and vowing that the administration would pursue them relentlessly until the Union Territory is freed from separatist and terrorist elements.
“Our goal is to identify and root out terrorism and every element associated with it in Jammu Kashmir. Today, we must resolve that we will not rest until this land is freed from separatist and terrorist elements. I warn those elements within Jammu Kashmir who support terrorism that your days are over. Even if you attempt to hide in Pataal, we will find you and ensure that you are punished under the law,” he said.
The Lieutenant Governor made these remarks while paying solemn tribute to police personnel who made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty on the occasion of Police Commemoration Day, saying their service and sacrifice remain an enduring source of inspiration for Jammu and Kashmir and the nation.
In his message, Sinha expressed gratitude to all police martyrs and conveyed deep respect and sympathy to their families, praying for their health and well-being. He emphasised that while no recognition can compensate for the loss suffered by families, it is the responsibility of the nation to honour their sacrifice through meaningful support and care.
“I have always said that no honour or assistance can compensate a family for the pain of losing a loved one. Yet, it is the nation’s duty to honour their sacrifice not merely in words, but also through its conduct and responsibilities. I assure the entire Jammu Kashmir Police family that every possible effort will continue to be made to ensure a dignified life, welfare, and necessary support for the families of the martyrs,” he said.
The Lieutenant Governor acknowledged the contributions of the Jammu Kashmir Police force, describing its history as one marked by courage, discipline and an unwavering commitment to duty. He noted that from maintaining law and order and combating terrorism to assisting citizens during emergencies and natural disasters, the force has rendered distinguished service under challenging circumstances.
“Thousands of personnel of the Jammu Kashmir Police force have laid down their lives in the fight against terrorism. I believe Jammu Kashmir Police’s courage is not confined to the borders of the Union Territory but it is a source of inspiration for the entire police system of the country. The nation will never forget the contribution of immortal martyrs, who dedicated everything to the honour, dignity and glory of the Tricolour,” he said.
Observing that the police uniform symbolises service, responsibility and sacrifice, the Lieutenant Governor said the true measure of policing lies in ensuring public safety, delivering justice to citizens and standing by society in times of need and crisis.
“In the 79 years since Independence, India has faced numerous challenges. The Jammu Kashmir Police, the Indian Army, and the Central Armed Police Forces have protected the nation’s security and integrity in difficult circumstances. Today, India is moving resolutely towards its goal of becoming a developed nation. In this journey, peace, stability, and progress in Jammu Kashmir are of special importance, and the major responsibility of ensuring them rests on the shoulders of the Police, Army and CAPFs,” he said.
Reaffirming the Government of India’s commitment to strengthening peace and progress in Jammu Kashmir, the Lieutenant Governor called upon citizens to uphold unity, communal harmony and mutual trust while remaining vigilant against forces seeking to disrupt peace and stability.
He also stressed the need for continued efforts to protect women, children and vulnerable sections of society, strengthen measures against drug trafficking and firmly combat narco-terrorism and its support networks.
“The prevention of crimes against women and children, the protection of vulnerable sections and ensuring timely justice for victims must be among our highest priorities. It is necessary to continuously review the systems for monitoring and controlling such crimes and to make them more effective. Similarly, the commitment to a drug-free Jammu Kashmir must be our collective resolve,” he said.
Commending the officers and personnel of the Jammu Kashmir Police, the Indian Army and the Central Armed Police Forces for their spirit of service, courage and sense of duty, the Lieutenant Governor wished them success in every mission, safety in their lives and a bright future.
