Marked improvement in Kashmir: Governor Sinha

Chennai, Mar 18 (UNI) Observing that proxy war and terrorism had taken a heavy toll over the last 16 years, Jammu and Kashmir Governor S K Sinha Lt. Gen (Retd) today said there was marked improvement in the situation as average killings per day had come down from 10 in 2003 to two now.

Talking to reporters after reviewing a passing out parade at the Officer's Training Academy (OTA) here, he said guns were booming and bullets were flying in Srinagar when he assumed office as Governor in June 2003. 'Now, a feeling of normalcy is setting and it can be seen.' Gen Sinha said in the last 16 years, proxy war and terrorism had taken a heavy toll and had its effect on Kashmiri's tradition too.

However, despite all the change, things were improving and 'there are very healthy and good signs,' he said, adding a poetic quote, 'Paradise Lost will be Paradise Gained'.

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh had been holding discussions with various groups to bring an end to the Kashmir issue, he said.

he added Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad, for his nationalistic views that had brought a 'breath of fresh air', in the state.

Speaking with a sense of optimism, Gen Sinha said hope had risen as the situation there had improved. 'Things are improving. We are coming out of the tunnel. There is hope and optimism in the state,' he added.

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