Srinagar, June 4: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Thursday described Jammu and Kashmir as one of the world’s most enduring examples of peaceful coexistence, saying the Union Territory continues to reflect India’s ancient tradition of respecting all faiths and cultural identities.
Speaking at the ‘Rishivar’ Inter-Faith Conference held at SKICC in Srinagar, Sinha emphasized that the principles of mutual respect, inclusiveness, and social harmony have remained central to Indian civilization for thousands of years. He noted that these values have enabled diverse communities to live together while preserving their unique traditions and beliefs.
The Lieutenant Governor said India’s spiritual and philosophical heritage has consistently promoted the idea that humanity is united despite differences in language, religion, and culture. According to him, this outlook has helped shape a society where diversity is viewed as a source of strength rather than division.
Highlighting Jammu and Kashmir’s historical significance, Sinha stated that the region has long served as a meeting point for different religious traditions, spiritual movements, and cultural influences. He said the Valley’s social fabric has been enriched by centuries of interaction among various faiths, creating a distinctive legacy of tolerance and understanding.
The Lieutenant Governor referred to ancient Indian scriptures and philosophical teachings that advocate harmony among people. He said these texts promoted values such as compassion, respect, and cooperation, principles that continue to remain relevant in modern society.
Addressing the gathering, Sinha observed that the concept of living together with dignity and respect was deeply embedded in Indian thought long before it became a subject of discussion in many other parts of the world. He added that the country’s civilizational ethos has always encouraged dialogue, acceptance, and peaceful engagement among communities.
He also spoke about the resilience of India’s spiritual traditions, noting that they have survived through centuries because of their ability to embrace diversity and adapt to changing circumstances while preserving their core values.
Drawing attention to Kashmir’s rich cultural history, the Lieutenant Governor said the region has been influenced by numerous spiritual schools and intellectual traditions over the centuries. He highlighted the contributions of philosophers, saints, mystics, and scholars who promoted messages of universal brotherhood and human dignity.
Sinha said historical records describe Kashmir as a land of sacred sites and spiritual learning, where different traditions flourished side by side. He noted that this heritage remains visible even today through the region’s religious institutions, cultural practices, and social values.
The Lieutenant Governor paid tribute to prominent spiritual figures associated with Kashmir’s Rishi-Sufi tradition, describing their teachings as powerful examples of compassion, social unity, and peaceful coexistence. He said their messages continue to inspire generations and strengthen bonds among communities.
During his address, Sinha underlined the importance of inter-faith dialogue in contemporary society. He said meaningful conversations between different communities can help reduce misunderstandings, encourage cooperation, and promote a shared commitment to social welfare.
He further stressed that while individuals may follow different faiths and traditions, all citizens are united by the constitutional framework of the nation. According to him, adherence to constitutional values remains essential for ensuring equality, justice, and national unity.
The Lieutenant Governor said every citizen, regardless of background, has a responsibility to contribute positively to society and uphold the principles enshrined in the Constitution. He added that public institutions and officials must remain committed to serving people impartially and transparently.
Speaking on social challenges, Sinha highlighted the ongoing campaign against drug abuse in Jammu and Kashmir. He expressed satisfaction over the strong public participation witnessed during the initiative and said community support would be crucial in addressing the issue effectively.
He praised residents across the Union Territory for actively engaging in awareness drives and anti-drug efforts, describing the response as highly encouraging. The Lieutenant Governor expressed confidence that sustained cooperation between citizens and authorities would produce meaningful results in the coming months.
Sinha also referred to Jammu and Kashmir’s performance in nationwide cultural programmes, stating that the region had demonstrated remarkable enthusiasm and participation. He said the achievements reflected the commitment of local communities to preserving and celebrating India’s shared heritage.
Concluding his address, the Lieutenant Governor called upon people to continue strengthening the values of unity, understanding, and mutual respect. He said lasting social progress can only be achieved when individuals work collectively for the welfare of society while embracing diversity as a foundation of national strength.
He described harmony among communities as one of India’s greatest contributions to humanity and urged citizens to nurture this legacy for future generations, ensuring that peace, cooperation, and inclusive development remain central to the country’s journey forward.