Kulgam, Sept 06: As Kulgam constituency in south Kashmir prepares for assembly elections, a 42-year-old independent candidate and former member of the banned Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI), has traded his teaching career for politics. Sayar Ahmad Reshi said he wants to bring about lasting peace and development to his hometown.
In an exclusive interview with Rising Kashmir reporter Younus Rashid, Sayar, discussed his transition from the banned organisation to mainstream politics and his vision for Kulgam.
Here are excerpts from the interview:
RK: What motivated your transition from Jamaat-e-Islami to mainstream politics?
Sayar: Jamaat and mainstream politics were never truly at odds. If Jamaat had no interest in mainstream politics, why would it have participated in elections in the 1980s? This narrative has been a propaganda tool used to undermine Jamaat’s belief in democratic principles.
The dynastic rulers in Kashmir propagated the idea that Jamaat doesn’t support mainstream politics, misleading common Kashmiris and using this misinformation to spread distrust against Jamaat while securing votes for themselves.
RK: What is your stance on the abrogation of Article 370?
Sayar: My stance on the abrogation of Article 370 is the same as that of every Kashmiri. Article 370 was gradually eroded by the dynastic parties that ruled Kashmir over time, leaving only a shell of it to secure votes from the people. We will fight for the restoration of Article 370 and promise the people of Kashmir that the rights and guarantees it once protected will be returned to them.
RK: What specific steps would you take to tackle unemployment and address the concerns of youth in Kulgam?
Sayar: If the youth of Kulgam give me an opportunity to represent them in the legislative assembly, I promise that unemployment, which I consider a curse on society, will be one of my top priorities. I will leverage my resources to invite business people to invest in my constituency, which will create opportunities for a large number of youth. Also, since horticulture is the major source of livelihood in my constituency, I will push the government to introduce schemes for apple growers and establish a mega industrial estate in Kulgam.
RK: How do you intend to maintain peace and stability while ensuring the rights of local citizens?
Sayar: When the fundamental and constitutional rights of the people are protected, and there is no harassment, intimidation, or violation of those rights, peace and stability will naturally follow. By prioritising education and instilling constitutional and democratic values in the people, we can achieve lasting peace. I guarantee my people that my focus will be on protecting their rights. There will be no harassment, intimidation, or violation of rights. My people will finally feel at home after a long time.
RK: What is your plan for improving infrastructure and development in Kulgam?
Sayar: My approach to improving infrastructure in Kulgam is straightforward. I will direct resources toward grassroots development. My focus will be on establishing a state-of-the-art cancer hospital in the district. Besides, I plan to set up 15 model schools and ensure that libraries are established in every village.
RK: Why should the people of Kulgam trust you over other candidates?
Sayar: I have been a teacher in Kulgam for 20 years, educating young minds who are now serving this nation at the highest levels in administration, health, police, education and other sectors. My people have known me for 30 years and have seen how I have served them during difficult times—whether it was during floods, shutdowns, or by teaching children free of cost.
My character is reflected in the work I’ve done through my social service. As a social reformer, I have sown seeds in this community that are now contributing to the nation. I firmly believe that as a politician, I can serve even more positively across various sectors.
