Daijiworld Media Network - Jammu

Jammu, Dec 17: Lt governor Manoj Sinha on Tuesday highlighted terrorism and corruption as major challenges in Jammu & Kashmir, expressing concern over the involvement of educated individuals in militant activities. Speaking at the concluding session of a Basohli painting workshop at IIM Jammu, Sinha asserted that efforts are underway to make the region free from both threats.

Citing the example of the Northeast, he noted that terrorism has been “completely” eradicated there, while Maoist activities have been largely controlled. He emphasized that security forces alone cannot tackle these issues and called for a collective effort from all sections of society.

The L-G claimed that the top commanders of militant groups in J&K have been eliminated and that local recruitment has stopped. He also stated that attempts by Pakistan to facilitate infiltration have failed. “Those who are already here will soon be neutralized. We must avoid focusing on ‘Andar wala’ or ‘Bahar wala’; such distinctions harm J&K,” he said.

The Basohli painting workshop saw participation from national and local artists, with IIM students showing keen interest. Over 400 paintings will be permanently displayed on campus to showcase the artistic heritage and excellence of Basohli art.

Sinha also noted that he regularly chairs security review meetings, and the security forces along with J&K Police are conducting aggressive operations against militants, their overground workers, and sympathizers to dismantle their support networks. Drug traffickers are also being targeted, as proceeds from narcotics are believed to finance terrorism in the region.