Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha emphasized the importance of synergy among security forces during recent high-level meetings aimed at enhancing safety and development across Jammu and Kashmir. On November 17, Sinha convened these discussions at the Convention Centre, bringing together top officials from the Civil Administration and Jammu and Kashmir Police. The meetings were sparked by the recent uptick in terrorist incidents, highlighting the urgent need for coordinated operational strategies.
This meeting, which represented Sinha’s first official gathering since administrative functions resumed in Jammu on November 11, included influential figures such as Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo and Director General of Police (DGP) Nalin Prabhat. The agenda focused not only on security issues but also on the review and progress of key developmental projects across the Jammu region.
The Lieutenant Governor stated, "With greater synergy and a whole-of-government approach, our focus should be on complete elimination of terrorism and the entire ecosystem supporting them." He underscored the necessity for not just proactive security measures but also agility among state forces to tackle threats head-on. Sinha instructed officers to implement strong measures against those who provide support to terrorists, pointing out this effort as being central to establishing long-lasting peace and development within the region. He remarked, "Wiping out terrorism from Jammu Kashmir will be your greatest contribution not only to the security aspect to establish peace but also to the development of J&K and its brighter future."
Earlier, the Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) for Jammu Zone, IPS Anand Jain, led comprehensive reviews of operational readiness. His assessments, conducted primarily around the Basantgarh area of the Udhampur district, were aimed at ensuring local police forces were adequately prepared to respond to the modern security environment. Meeting with various units, Jain highlighted the need for continuous vigilance and to employ both human and technical intelligence effectively.
During these security assessments, Jain inspected available resources within the Basantgarh Police Station, collaborating closely with units such as the Special Operations Group (SOG) to evaluate existing protocols and readiness. Insights gained during these sessions formed the backbone of the discussions led by Sinha. Jain noted, "Round-the-clock vigilance, proactive intelligence gathering, and swift response strategies are necessary to counter potential security challenges."
The focus of the LG's meetings was twofold, seeking not only to bolster security but also to accelerate infrastructure development. Important projects under discussion included the Tawi riverfront and artificial lake initiative, as well as various highway improvements. Sinha pressed for the urgency of executing these projects effectively, stating the need to meet strict deadlines.
Officials were also tasked with enhancing public outreach initiatives and maximizing the coverage of government welfare programs, including the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP). Sinha directed Deputy Commissioners across the Jammu division to facilitate these plans, reinforcing the government’s commitment to local empowerment.
During discussions, Sinha reinforced the idea of maintaining operational synergy. "Activate all resources, intelligence, both human and technical, to check infiltration, terror incidents, and activities of all those miscreants and collaborators who want to disturb peace by any means," the LG declared, catering to the pressing security concerns of the area. Following Sinha's meeting, another gathering under the leadership of DGP Nalin Prabhat was held later the same evening to refine strategies based around the insights garnered from previous discussions.
Notably, political reactions to Sinha's efforts have emerged. Congress leader Tariq Hameed Karra raised apprehensions about the delineation of responsibilities among the Chief Minister and the LG, cautioning against potential conflicts arising from separate security reviews being conducted by both parties. He claimed, "Two power centers are not in the best interest of J&K," voicing concerns over governance and transparency at the bureaucratic level.
Despite the contentious political backdrop, the security apparatus continues to maintain its focus on counterterrorism. Sinha's directives form part of broader efforts to stabilize the region which remains significantly affected by historical grievances and recent violent episodes.
Local authorities are hopeful the multi-pronged approach being outlined will lead to improved safety and increased support for development initiatives, benefiting the residents of Jammu and Kashmir, and building more cohesive community relations.
