Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, in his address during the 155th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, hailed the peaceful completion of elections in Jammu and Kashmir, stating that the “power of the vote has triumphed over the futility of the gun.” Speaking at Raj Bhawan, Sinha emphasized that the recent peaceful elections have become a global point of discussion and a testament to the progress made in the region.
Referring to the recently concluded third phase of assembly elections, which followed peaceful Lok Sabha polls in May, the Lt Governor expressed pride in the democratic process reaffirmed by 1.4 crore citizens. He noted that the successful conduct of the elections has “reaffirmed the faith of the people in democracy, not just in India but around the world.”
Addressing the youth of Jammu and Kashmir, the Lt Governor commended their transition from violence to constructive development. “We no longer see guns and stones in the hands of our youth, but instead, dreams and aspirations for the future. The younger generation now understands that their role is not just to be part of the system but to lead it toward progress,” he said.
Sinha urged the youth to follow the right path, stressing that noble goals must be achieved through pure means. “If our methods are wrong, even the best intentions will fail,” he added, emphasizing the importance of integrity in pursuing development.
Reflecting on the legacy of Mahatma Gandhi, Sinha reminded the audience of Bapu’s belief that Jammu and Kashmir represented a “ray of hope” amidst the darkness of partition in 1947. “It is our responsibility to uphold his vision of unity, peace, and brotherhood,” Sinha remarked, calling on the people of Jammu and Kashmir to maintain social harmony and strengthen the region’s communal fabric.
Sinha praised the youth of J&K for their growing engagement in education and entrepreneurship, noting that millions have joined the national mainstream in the past five years. “It is heartening to see that one-third of these startups are led by young women,” he said, underscoring the critical role of youth in shaping the future of Jammu and Kashmir.
In a message of hope, the Lt Governor said that the era of conflict in Jammu and Kashmir is over, and now is the time for peace, progress, and unity. “Let us work together to build the prosperous Jammu and Kashmir that Gandhiji envisioned,” he said.
The event, held at Raj Bhawan, also marked the conclusion of the Swachhata Pakhwada and Swachhata Hi Seva Abhiyan. The Lt Governor commended students for their active participation in cleanliness drives and urged citizens to dedicate one day each month to community service.
Highlighting the transformational work done in the last five years in J&K, the Lt Governor said, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, empowerment of grassroots democracy and violence-free elections is a testament that Jammu Kashmir is shedding the past and creating a new future.
“Life and work of Gandhiji is shaping new Jammu Kashmir today. The world has recently witnessed a historic, free, peaceful and fair assembly elections. 1 crore 40 lakh citizens have reiterated their faith in the values of the Constitution and have resolved to contribute to the development of this beautiful Union Territory and the country,” the Lt Governor said.
The Lt Governor also appreciated the School Education Department and students from schools across J&K for their cleanliness endeavours like adopting a local water body, local park or a local heritage site to undertake cleanliness drive twice every month, as a mark of respect to Mahatma Gandhi.
He urged the people, especially the youth to identify one place in all the cities and villages and dedicate one day of the month for activities like cleanliness drives and Shramdaan.
The Lt Governor also appealed to all sections of the society to take inspiration from Bapu’s life and work towards public welfare.
On the occasion, the Lt Governor felicitated the students who have excelled in various competitions as a part of Gandhi Jayanti celebration.
The event also featured the enthralling performances from Artists and Students depicting the life of Mahatma Gandhi.
Alok Kumar, Principal Secretary, Department of School Education & Department of Higher Education; senior officials; heads of educational institutions; students, teachers, youth and prominent citizens from across the UT joined the celebration, in person and through virtual mode.
J&K youth now hold dreams, not guns: LG Sinha
