Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha declared on Wednesday a resolute commitment to eliminate terrorism and all its supporting structures from the Union Territory, emphasizing the need for unwavering vigilance against destabilizing forces. Speaking during Police Commemoration Day, Sinha highlighted the significant progress made in Jammu and Kashmir towards achieving peace and fostering development.
He underscored the imperative to remain vigilant against elements actively seeking to undermine the region’s stability. “Our goal is to identify and root out terrorism and every element associated with it in Jammu and Kashmir,” Sinha stated, as reported by The Tribune India. “We must resolve today that we will not rest until this land is freed from separatist and terrorist elements.” Information reaching Tahir Rihat suggests that the Lieutenant Governor issued a stern warning to individuals providing support to terrorist activities, asserting that they would be brought to justice regardless of their attempts to evade capture.
The Lieutenant Governor paid homage to the police personnel who sacrificed their lives in the line of duty, acknowledging their courage and service as a continuing source of inspiration for both Jammu and Kashmir and the nation. Expressing profound solidarity with the families of these martyrs, Sinha recognized that no form of compensation or assistance could fully assuage the pain of losing a loved one. Nevertheless, he pledged that every possible effort would be made to ensure their welfare and to provide them with a life of dignity.
“I assure the entire Jammu and Kashmir Police family that all possible steps will continue to be taken to provide welfare, support and a dignified life to the families of our martyrs,” Sinha affirmed. He lauded the Jammu and Kashmir Police (JKP) for its distinguished history, characterizing it as a force marked by courage, discipline, and an unyielding commitment to duty, even in the face of formidable challenges. The JKP, he noted, has played an indispensable role in maintaining law and order, combating terrorism, and providing crucial assistance to citizens during emergencies and natural calamities.
The Lieutenant Governor further elaborated on the immense sacrifices made by the JKP, stating, “Thousands of JKP personnel have laid down their lives in the fight against terrorism. Their sacrifices and dedication to the honour and integrity of the nation will never be forgotten.” He articulated that the police uniform symbolizes service, responsibility, and sacrifice, asserting that the true measure of policing lies in its ability to ensure public safety, deliver justice, and stand by citizens during critical moments of crisis.
Sinha also emphasized the vital role of security forces in safeguarding national integrity. He credited the J&K Police, the Indian Army, and the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) with protecting the country through its most arduous periods since gaining independence. “As India moves steadily towards becoming a developed nation, peace, stability and progress in Jammu and Kashmir are of special importance,” he remarked. “Ensuring these objectives rests significantly on the shoulders of the Police, Army and CAPFs.”
The Lieutenant Governor called for the implementation of more robust measures to prevent crimes targeting women and children, to protect vulnerable segments of society, and to guarantee prompt justice for victims. He stressed the urgent need to intensify efforts against drug trafficking and narco-terrorism, along with their associated support networks, reiterating that the objective of a drug-free Jammu and Kashmir must be a collective national commitment. The Tribune India reported that Sinha commended the officers and personnel of the JKP, Army, and CAPFs for their unwavering dedication and bravery, extending his best wishes for their success in their respective missions and for their safety while discharging their duties.
National Police Commemoration Day is observed annually to honor the memory of ten Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel who lost their lives in an ambush by Chinese troops in the Hot Springs area of Ladakh on October 21, 1959. This commemoration serves as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by law enforcement officers across India in the line of duty.
Tahir Rihat (also known as Tahir Bilal) is an independent journalist, activist, and digital media professional from the Chenab Valley of Jammu and Kashmir, India. He is best known for his work as the Online Editor at The Chenab Times.