Former President of Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industries and Awami Itihad Party’s candidate from Ganderbal constituency, Sheikh Ashiq in an interview with Rising Kashmir’s Correspondent, Umar Raina discusses his plunge into the world of politics and his roadmap for the development of Ganderbal.
RK: You’re fighting elections for the first time. How challenging has it been so far?
Sheikh Ashiq: Indeed, this is my first Assembly election, and I consider it a huge responsibility. My primary goal, if elected, is to serve the people of Ganderbal with dedication. My focus will be on addressing the immediate needs of the district and ensuring the well-being of every resident.
We are actively engaging with the people through a door-to-door campaign across the Ganderbal Constituency. Our focus is to connect directly with the people, understand their concerns, and share our vision for the future of Ganderbal.
RK: Ganderbal has been traditionally ruled by members of the Sheikh family. How do you see this challenge, especially from Omar Abdullah?
Sheikh Ashiq: I don’t see it as a tough challenge. The people of Ganderbal are looking for change. They want a representative who truly understands their struggles and is committed to addressing them. I believe our message resonates with the people, and we are confident of their support.
RK: What are the key issues you’re focusing on while seeking votes from people of Ganderbal?
Sheikh Ashiq: The people of Ganderbal have been neglected by those who ruled here in the past. If AIP comes into power and I’m elected, we will work on providing a world-class stadium for sports enthusiasts, streamline the Nallah Sindh to ensure better management, and focus on infrastructure development. Our goal is to make Ganderbal a hub of opportunities.
RK: Regional parties have labelled AIP’s Patron as a product of BJP. Your thoughts?
Sheikh Ashiq: Around 15 to 20 days ago, an ED case against a political leader was quashed by the judicial system, and we welcomed the decision without politicizing it. Similarly, for Engineer Rashid, we first applied for regular bail. When we realized it might take time, we went for interim bail. If Kejriwal could be granted bail, why not Engineer Rashid? Unfortunately, instead of welcoming the decision, some parties politicized it. Engineer Rashid is a son of the soil and was their colleague in the Legislative Assembly before 2018. He deserved to be welcomed back, not burdened with political charges.
RK: As a former KCCI President, what will you do to boost the economy in Ganderbal if you win the assembly elections?
Sheikh Ashiq: My experience as President of the KCCI will be instrumental in shaping Ganderbal’s economic future. We will focus on boosting tourism, creating employment opportunities for educated youth, and empowering women. Streamlining the Nallah Sindh will also open up new avenues for economic activity, and we will ensure the best infrastructure for sports lovers in Ganderbal. Our aim is to make Ganderbal a vibrant and prosperous district.
