J&K LG Manoj Sinha: UN Office No Longer Needed in Kashmir
Srinagar, April 2, 2025 – Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has stated that the United Nations office in Srinagar is no longer necessary, citing significant improvements in the region’s security and normalcy. However, he clarified that the decision to close the office falls under the purview of the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and the central government.
LG’s Remarks on Normalcy
Speaking during an interview, LG Sinha highlighted the transformation in Jammu and Kashmir over the past few years. He credited the efforts of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah for creating a peaceful environment in the region. “Stone pelting has become history, businesses are thriving, and educational institutions are functioning normally,” he remarked. Sinha also pointed out that the youth of Kashmir are now aspiring for opportunities similar to their peers across the country.
Role of the UN Office
The United Nations Military Observer Group in India and Pakistan (UNMOGIP) was established in 1949 to monitor the ceasefire between India and Pakistan in Jammu and Kashmir. While its mandate has been a point of contention between the two nations, the office continues to operate in Srinagar and Islamabad. India has previously argued that the UNMOGIP’s mandate is no longer relevant, given the 1972 Simla Agreement, which established bilateral mechanisms for resolving disputes.
Political and Public Reactions
The LG’s statement has sparked discussions about the relevance of the UN office in the current context. While some view it as a sign of progress and stability, others argue that the office serves as a neutral observer in a sensitive region. The decision to close the office, if pursued, is likely to draw reactions from both domestic and international stakeholders.
