Bilal Lone urges youth to make wise political choices

Srinagar, Aug 24: Senior political leader Bilal Gani Lone on Sunday urged people to exercise wisdom and maturity while making political choices, stressing that dignity and self-respect must remain beyond compromise.Addressing a series of public interactions in Handwara in north Kashmir’s Kupwara district, Lone said development and good governance were inherent rights of the people and not concessions offered by politicians. “No one should have to beg for what they rightfully deserve. Development, jobs, and accountability are not favours but fundamental rights. You must assert yourselves and always hold your heads high,” he told the gathering.He warned that poor choices at the ballot could have long-term consequences. “One small mistake at the ballot box can shape our future for years. Once the damage is done by a vested political system, it is not easily undone. Sadly, it’s the people who pay the price, while those who exploit your votes secure benefits for themselves,” Lone said.Highlighting the need for honest and capable leadership, Lone argued that only leaders with integrity could bring meaningful transformation on the ground. He urged the youth of Jammu and Kashmir to take the lead in reshaping governance and politics. “Real empowerment will come only when our young generation takes charge, uses the electoral system to make their voices heard, and works to transform governance for the good of the people,” he said.The senior leader maintained that active engagement with democratic institutions was the only way forward. “Our collective future is tied to the system. We must engage with it, strengthen it, and make it work for the people,” he said, adding that indifference or alienation from governance only deepens existing challenges.Reassuring the public of his commitment, Lone said he would stand firmly with the people and take up their issues at every available forum. “I will stand by you and work to find meaningful solutions to your genuine concerns. I will take your issues to the concerned authorities and ensure your demands are addressed in time,” he promised.Calling for a politics rooted in self-respect and accountability, Lone concluded that the people of Jammu and Kashmir must no longer be treated as passive recipients of promises but as rightful stakeholders in shaping their own destiny.