In a long-overdue act of justice, Jammu and Kashmir administration has finally extended a healing touch to families who bore the brunt of terrorism decades ago and who lost their family members in the terrorist violence.
After 37 years of waiting in silence, a group of families whose loved ones were killed in terror attacks have now been offered government jobs --- a move seen as a significant step towards closure and recognition.
The decision, taken under the leadership of Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has brought relief, tears and a sense of long-awaited dignity to survivors, who had almost lost hope.
For these families, who were left with memories, grief, and often no means of livelihood, the announcement marks a historic moment.
“We waited for years, through one government after another, but our pleas were always ignored. But now under LG Sinha’s administration, justice has finally knocked on our door,” said Amina Bano, whose father was killed in a militant ambush in early years of militancy.
The families, hailing from various parts of Kashmir and Jammu regions, were once promised government jobs under a rehabilitation and compensation package formulated during the height of insurgency in the late 1980s. However, the files gathered dust and the promises faded—until now.
A small but emotionally charged function was held at the Civil Secretariat in Srinagar where appointment letters were distributed to selected family members.
LG Sinha, in his address, said the government is committed to healing wounds that have remained unacknowledged for too long.
“Terrorism has left many families shattered. It is the duty of a responsible government to stand with its citizens in their pain. This is not just a job offer; it is a step toward restoring dignity, trust, and justice,” LG Sinha said.
Several of the beneficiaries, some now in their forties, spoke of the hardship they endured growing up without their primary breadwinners.
Mohammad Yusuf, whose elder brother was killed in a targeted attack, recalled quitting school to support his family. “This appointment means my son won't have to make the same sacrifices I did.”
Civil society groups and local leaders have welcomed the move, calling it “a long-overdue but highly appreciable gesture.”
Rights activist Mahjabeen Qadri said, “This action sets an important precedent. Justice delayed is still justice delivered, especially when it comes with sincerity and acknowledgement of past wrongs.”
The government has also hinted at reviewing similar pending cases from the turbulent years of conflict, offering hope to many more families whose lives were forever changed by terrorism.
For now, the recipients say this is more than employment—it is a validation of their pain, their resilience, and their forgotten stories finally being heard.