SRINAGAR: Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha on Wednesday addressed security concerns and separatism in his speech at the inauguration of the joint edition of the Jammu Film Festival (JFF) and The International Film Festival of Srinagar (TIFFS) at Aquaplex Crown, Bagh-e-Bahu, Jammu.
In his address, the Lieutenant Governor extended his congratulations to the organisers and participants, stating, “The entries from more than 50 countries are a testimony to vibrant, peaceful and prosperous JK UT under the leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.”
He further added, “Peace, vibrant movie culture and economic prosperity are interlinked and I want to warn those who are trying to disrupt normal life or daydreaming of bringing disorder that existed before 2019.”
Shri Sinha addressed security concerns, saying, “Our law enforcement agencies are monitoring the anti-India elements and separatists’ ecosystem and if they try to put people’s lives in danger or compromise India’s integrity, we will ensure exemplary punishment for them.”
The Lieutenant Governor also called upon filmmakers to use their craft for positive change, stating, “I believe a good film is one which strikes a balance between entertainment and social concern.” He urged them to “inspire people to follow the right path, serve their art and also give priority to national interest.”
He further highlighted the role of cinema as a tool of soft power, saying, “Good Cinema is not just entertainment but also influences the greater cause of service and human values.” He encouraged filmmakers to contribute to the promotion of “equality, social justice and help in eradicating social evils.”
On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor spoke about the progressive film policy of Jammu and Kashmir, highlighting initiatives like the operationalisation of cinema halls in Kashmir, incentives for filmmakers, and a Single Window portal to create a vibrant film ecosystem. He also announced, “Jammu Kashmir will host the International Film Festival next year.”
At the event, Shri Sinha paid homage to renowned theatre and film personality Shri Mushtaq Kak, recalling his “outstanding contribution to the world of cinema and theatre.” He also commended the efforts of ‘Vomedh Organization’ for promoting cinema in Jammu and Kashmir and presented the Mushtaq Kak award to renowned filmmaker and actor Sh Pankaj Khajuria.
The ceremony was attended by Ms Yasha Mudgal, Commissioner Secretary, Tourism Department; Sh Shiv Kumar Sharma, DIG Jammu-Samba-Kathua Range; Sh Rohit Bhat, President Vomedh and Festival Director of Jammu Film Festival & TIFFS; and other senior officials, industry professionals, artists, and cinema enthusiasts.
