Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha called on the people of Jammu and Kashmir to unite for peace and progress, strongly condemning terrorism and divisive forces.
Addressing a special function for Rajouri Day, he asked everyone to play an active role in identifying and isolating elements that breach harmony.
The Lieutenant Governor called on everyone in society to work together to fight terrorism by recognizing and separating themselves from those who create division, and by taking an active role in dismantling terrorist groups.
He warned that constant external threats necessitate vigilance, citing the enemy's attempts to disrupt peace by introducing terrorists.
He urged cooperation between security forces and the public to eliminate terrorists and their supporters, stating that the Indian Army, Central Armed Police Forces, and Jammu and Kashmir Police must work with the public towards this goal.
Emphasizing the strength of unity, LG Sinha said, "Our collective strength will successfully counter terrorism and enemy threats, taking us towards peace and development."
Earlier during the day, LG Manoj Sinha presided over the official commemoration of "Rajouri Day" in honor of the courageous soldiers and civilians who laid down their lives in 1948 for the liberation of Rajouri.
During the Rajouri event, the Lieutenant Governor was joined by Lieutenant General MV Suchindra Kumar, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief Northern Command; Lieutenant General PK Mishra, GOC White Knight Corps; high-ranking military personnel, J&K Police, civil leaders, veterans, and numerous local citizens.
The LG conveyed that the sheer heroism and valor of our warriers will remain remembered for ever with their firm steadfastness, zeal for work, and an abundance of patriotic zeal. He also saluted the selfless heroisms of warriors like Brigadier Mohammad Usman and Lieutenant Ram Raghoba Rane.
He called Rajouri Day "a symbol of the unbreakable strength of the Indian Army" and called for upholding national unity and cultural harmony. "It is a reminder that we will never allow our unity and cultural ties to be shattered," he said.
LG Sinha added that this event is not only about remembering the past; it's also important to transfer these values to the next generation. "This is a moment to learn from the life experiences of all those heroes who sacrificed their lives to safeguard our citizens," he said. "Today is also about imparting the values of those courageous men and women who braved the challenges during the Rajouri crisis."
He also emphasized the importance of the day by making a reference to Guru Gobind Singh Ji, mentioning its religious significance. "Guru Gobind Singh Ji established the Khalsa Panth on this day. His eternal guidance still directs our valiant soldiers. His wisdom and principles guide the fearless warriors of the Indian Army to display devotion, gallantry, and selflessness," he clarified.
Stressing that the need for unity to contain disintegrative forces, LG Sinha exhorted all segments of society to be united. "All need to join hands and identify and isolate those attempting to disrupt peace and progress," he appealed.
To commemorate the 77th anniversary of the liberation of Rajouri, a commemorative postal cover was specially issued during the event. The occasion also included a motorcycle acrobatic stunt show and cultural programs highlighting the zeal and discipline of the Indian Armed Forces and Jammu and Kashmir Police.
Dignitaries who were present included Ch. Naseem Liaqat, District Development Council Rajouri Chairman; MLAs Iftkhar Ahmed, Thakur Randhir Singh, and Ch. Javed Iqbal; Deputy Commissioner Rajouri Abhishek Sharma; and family members of martyrs and a vast number of citizens who gathered together to pay homage to the Rajouri heroes.