LS polls: Kupwara people ask leaders to ‘remain committed beyond ballot box’

Kupwara, May 11: As the 2024 Lok Sabha election fervour escalates, northern Kashmir especially Kupwara district brims with anticipations. From the drum beats to fervent rallies, people eagerly await the upcoming polling day on May 20, to cast their votes.
In Lolab Valley of Kupwara, a group of people voiced their demand for justice and accountability from their elected representatives.
Expressing frustration with the perceived neglect post-election, people urged their leaders to remain committed to their constituents beyond the ballot box.
Amidst the high-election atmosphere, the National Conference among others including the People’s Conference (PC) and the Awami Ittehad Party (AIP) emerges as a prominent focal point of support and allegiance, with the scores of enthusiastic citizens pledge their allegiance to the party and its candidate, Omar Abdullah.
However, Abdul Rasheed Sheikh @ Er Rasheed’s AIP has gained momentum with the youth taking part in the campaigning, terming the candidate as the best choice for them. They said he has always remained steadfast and at the forefront when it comes to Kashmir.
“I’m 65 years old and have been participating in elections for decades. I’m definitely going to participate in this election as it could potentially change the entire landscape, especially the political one,” said Ghulam Qadir Lone.
Lone added that it is crucial to have own government and representatives, who would value their voices.
Similarly, Manzoor Ahmed, a senior citizen, who runs a Kiryana shop in his locality said that they have always been at the forefront of the elections and are proactive in electing their representatives. However, they observed that instead of helping people to alleviate their burdens, the leaders never turn up after the voting.
Bashir Ahmed, a farmer by profession and a staunch supporter of the National Conference, said he and his family will cast their votes in favour of NC and its leader Omar Abdullah.
“I am attached to the plough, so it is going to be ‘Hal’ of everything,” he said.
Similarly, another group of people who were the spectators of a political rally shared their thoughts, saying whoever will be the winner should serve the people in every aspect.
Most importantly, they should not deceive innocent people, as seen earlier. An elected representative should understand their duty. Just as they seek votes with enthusiasm, they should serve the people with the same dedication after the polls. They must fulfill their responsibilities,” they said.
At various places of Kupwara, including Bramri, Lalpora and Ramhall, people, especially youth, were quite enthusiastic and expressed their opinion in support of an independent candidate Er Rasheed.
“We have seen representatives before, but now it is time for a change. We have decided to vote for the AIP. There is no better option for us than Er Rasheed, who is currently languishing in jail,” Tanveer Ahmed, a resident of Bramri Kupwara said.
Ishfaq Rasheed, a Lalpora youth said his family with six votes has come together to support a new candidate who they believe will truly represent their concerns and bring much-needed relief to the people.
“We have experienced the disappointment of being let down by the other parties in the past. However, we are united this time for a positive change,” Ishfaq said.
Abdul Rasheed Bhat, a senior citizen of Ramhall, expressed his preference for Sajad Lone to represent the people in parliament. He said they see no alternative choice. Actions of the National Conference are among the factors for influencing his decision, indicating a clear stance on his support for Sajad Lone.
Elections to the Baramulla parliamentary constituency will take place on May 20. All the arrangements have been finalised, with 22 candidates in the fray, including NC’s Omar Abdullah, PC’s Sajad Lone, PDP’s Mir Fayaz, AIP’s Sheikh Rasheed and others.