Qysar Ul Islam Shah
The J&K Assembly Elections hold significant importance as this will be the first since the revocation of 370 and 35A in Aug 2019 which striped the region into two UTs:Jk and Ladakh. Since then mainstream and other political party leaders had been demanding free and fair elections and, ultimately time has knocked to see the dawn. Also the whistle for legislative elections had already begun swiftly and candidates in fray are busy in persuading voters to attain maximum votes through loudspeakers, political rallies, campaigning from door to door. Such practice is not new in the region, but people are enough mature to know the value of their vote. Over the years, people hardly visit to their native polling stations to cast their vote due to various reasons, but of late the situation went under profound change with people thronging in making perceptions about formation of new government in Jammu and Kashmir after abrogation. People genuinely want to change Kashmiris situation and they know their vote has power to transform entire atmosphere. They believe that voting is the way to make a difference.
The voter turnout in the first phase bears witness that people have chosen ballots over boycotts. Casting every vote matters and urging every one is the need of the hour. Voting is a fundamental right and cornstone of democracy allowing citizens to have a say in how they are governed. If people want to change and there is no substitute for brisk polling that will surely bring out the genuine representative who can even reach out to general masses to redress their grievances and concerns.
Vying for power in valley major political parties in fray released their manifesto to persuade voters. The most important thing during these elections was by and large peaceful. This election will mark a new chapter a new chapter for J&K providing citizens an opportunity to voice their concern and shape the future governance of the region. By casting a vote, individuals contribute to shaping the policies and leadership that impact their daily lives and future.
Voting strengthens the democratic system by promoting representation, fairness and inclusivity. Voting serves as a powerful instrument for promoting social change, establishing democratic government, advancing civil rights, and influences the direction of their society. I am of the opinion that students studying outside the valley should come and participate in election by casting their invaluable vote to choose their capable representative. When a significant portion of the population abstains from voting, it not only creates vacuum for exploitation, but also distorts and diminishes the legitimacy of the emerging government.
If we exercise out voting right when needed no rulers or leaders will have dictatorial power due to fear of being rejected next time? But what we do either we keep away or we show negligence, later it casts very much. Some of the reason for not voting includes lack of trust in political leaders, lack of awareness about the importance of voting, confusion, apathetic voters, disliking for candidates etc. No situation would change by sitting idle while others decide your future. If you don’t vote you really have no right to complain about. Don’t be away on polling days. Gone are the days when shutdowns, strikes and adverse ground conditions meant to lower turnout–brought nothing except loss and depletion in business sector thereby weakening our economy?
A new surprise in the valley politics is the rise of a pro-separatist leader called Awami Ithaad Party (AIP) led by mercurial leader Sheikh Abdul Rashid popularly known as Engineer Rashid. Rashid shocked observers of JK politics when thousands of youth voted in his favour and won North Kashmir Lok Sabah seat of Barmullah defeating Omer Abdullah the strong man and towering leader in the valley politics. Same speculation is rife that Rashid’s party would emerge as strong force again in the valley politics through the legislative elections. Choosing ballot over boycotts brought different candidates to shape the fate of the valley. Given the regions unique geopolitical significance and historical complexities, urgency for statehood and an elected government is paramount. Let’s pledge to vote on the scheduled date to form new government and initiate the progress towards dignity and development.
Qysar Ul Islam Shah is a teacher by profession and columnist.
