LG Manoj Sinha Stresses Unity and Inter Faith Harmony at Srinagar Rishiwar Conference
SRINAGAR, JUNE 4 — Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha attended the Rishiwar Inter-Faith Conference 2026 in Srinagar today, where he emphasized that the concept of honoring all faiths equally has been deeply woven into the fabric of Indian philosophy for millennia.
Addressing the gathering, Sinha noted that while many nations today struggle with the challenges of coexistence, diversity has long been India’s natural rhythm of life. He observed that while many societies have had to devise specific measures to safeguard unity, India embraced the ethos and value of coexistence and practiced it seamlessly for thousands of years.
The Lieutenant Governor observed that respecting all ideas and beliefs has always been the tradition of Sanatan Dharma. He stated that India has consistently emphasized unity in diversity, showing respect to every faith that emerged thousands of years after Sanatan Dharma. Citing ancient wisdom, Sinha mentioned that the Rigveda teaches that hearts and minds should be aligned, aims should be the same, feelings should be in harmony, and thoughts should be united.
He highlighted that scholars and researchers worldwide agree that the spirit of equal regard for all religions finds its philosophical roots in the ancient traditions of India, where Vedas, Upanishads, saints, and seers have illuminated a path toward lasting world peace through both thought and deed.Sinha stated that every thread of society must be woven together, advancing with a shared commitment to the welfare of humanity.
He described the ethos of equal respect for all religions as India’s most precious gift to the world, calling for it to be continuously nurtured so that communities can move forward together in unity and bring prosperity to everyone. He also highlighted the exceptional performance of Jammu Kashmir during the three phases of the Vande Mataram initiative, describing the achievement as extraordinary and a testament to the enduring patriotic spirit of the people.
The Lieutenant Governor lauded the overwhelming public support for the Nasha Mukt Jammu Kashmir Abhiyaan, noting that participation from all sections of society has been organic and inspiring. He called upon citizens, institutions, and community leaders to embrace the campaign as a people’s movement and work together toward building a drug-free and healthier society.
The conference was attended by a large number of dignitaries, including High Court Judge Sanjay Dhar, J&K Waqf Board Chairperson Syed Darakhshan Andrabi, Kashmir University Vice-Chancellor Nilofer Khan, Organiser Convener Meena Sharma, along with saints, senior officers of the judiciary, police, civil administration, faculty members, and students.