Manoj Sinha Challenges Rahul Gandhi’s ‘King’ Remark, Offers to Resign Based on Public Opinion.

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has responded strongly to Congress MP Rahul Gandhi’s recent comments comparing his governance to that of a king. Speaking at Aaj Tak’s ‘Panchayat’ on Thursday, Sinha challenged Gandhi by proposing a secret ballot to gauge public sentiment on the progress made in J&K since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019. Sinha asserted that he would resign if more than 75% of the public did not believe that significant work had been done for their welfare over the past five years.

Sinha’s remarks follow Gandhi’s statement during a visit to Kashmir, where the Congress leader accused the Lieutenant Governor of exploiting local resources for the benefit of outsiders. In response, Sinha emphasized his commitment to supporting whichever party forms the next government in J&K, affirming the Lieutenant Governor’s administrative powers within Union Territories.

Addressing concerns about the upcoming Assembly elections, which will be held in three phases from September 18, Sinha assured the public of a free and fair process, highlighting the increased voter turnout in the recent Lok Sabha polls as evidence of growing public faith in India’s democracy.

Sinha also reiterated that Article 370 is no longer part of the Constitution, a decision upheld by the Supreme Court, urging the Congress and opposition to accept this reality.