Senior citizens in South Kashmir vote for resolution of long-standing issues

Pulwama/Tral, Sept 18: The first phase of the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections saw a strong turnout of senior citizens in South Kashmir, who cast their votes in hopes of addressing long-standing issues and community problems.
Polling stations in Pulwama and Anantnag were abuzz with activity as voters lined up to exercise their franchise, creating a festive atmosphere. Gul Muhammad Khan, a voter from Bijbehara, highlighted the significance of this assembly election, the first in a decade. He emphasized that voters are seeking resolution to longstanding issues, including the implementation of welfare schemes that have often failed to reach their intended beneficiaries.
“There are many government welfare schemes that do not reach the actual beneficiaries due to lack of awareness,” Khan said. He added that people are burdened by high electricity bills and expect elected leaders to take steps to alleviate this financial strain.
The elderly voter also expressed concerns over drug addiction, noting that while efforts have been made, more needs to be done to address this growing problem. “Educated and unemployed youth have become victims of drug abuse. There is a need for more effective measures to rehabilitate them and reintegrate them into the community,” he said.
Voters across Pulwama and Tral expressed their frustrations with unemployment, urging the government to implement a comprehensive job policy. They criticized the lack of private sector opportunities in the valley, which has limited job prospects for the youth.
Abdul Hameed from Tral voiced his concerns over issues that have been neglected for a decade. He expressed hope that new candidates would address these problems. “We vote for candidates who listen to our issues. We are struggling with heavy electricity bills and hope the new government will address this issue,” he said.
Ali Dar, a farmer from Tral, raised concerns about the walnut industry, which is crucial to the region’s economy. Despite its significant contribution to India’s walnut production, the industry faces challenges due to outdated infrastructure and lack of government support. “The industry provides livelihoods to many farmers and supports related sectors. We need a policy that revives this vital industry,” Dar said.
At Dar Mohallah Lurgam, a group of elderly voters reflected on their long history of voting, emphasizing the importance of electing honest leaders who can advocate for their community’s needs. “Voting is about having someone to represent us and address our concerns with higher authorities,” they concluded.