SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha responded strongly to Congress MP Rahul Gandhi’s recent criticism, where Gandhi compared his governance to that of a monarch. Sinha vowed to resign if more than 75 percent of the public do not approve of the welfare work carried out over the last five years.
Speaking at Aaj Tak’s ‘Panchayat’ event, Sinha suggested a secret ballot to gauge public opinion, particularly after the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019. “He (Rahul Gandhi) should ask the public. If a secret ballot reveals that less than 75% believe their welfare has improved, I will step down,” Sinha declared.
Rahul Gandhi, during his recent visit to Kashmir, criticised Sinha’s leadership, likening it to the rule of a king. Gandhi had said, “A king is sitting in JK who is taking your wealth and giving it to outsiders by bringing in contractors.”
In response, Sinha highlighted the high voter turnout in the recent Lok Sabha elections, particularly in Jammu and Kashmir, where 58.46 percent of the electorate voted – the highest in 35 years. Sinha remarked that this turnout demonstrated the people’s understanding of Pakistan’s conspiracy and their belief in India’s democracy.
Addressing the abrogation of Article 370, Sinha stressed that the Supreme Court had upheld the Centre’s decision and that the Congress and opposition should acknowledge that Article 370 is no longer part of the Constitution. Sinha also condemned both the BJP and opposition alliance INDIA for exploiting issues surrounding Jammu and Kashmir’s status.
“The people of Jammu and Kashmir, especially the people of the Valley, have expressed faith in the democracy of India,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
