Peoples’ Democratic Party’s candidate from Ganderbal constituency Bashir Ahmad Mir in a candid conversation with Rising Kashmir, Reporter Umar Raina discusses the challenges faced by the people of his constituency and an urgent need to improve health and education sectors in Ganderbal district.
RK: You are from Kangan but you’re contesting polls from Ganderbal constituency?
Mir: Well, as you know, the Kangan constituency has been reserved for Scheduled Tribes (ST), which means I’m unable to contest from there. The PDP decided that I should contest from the Ganderbal Constituency instead, and I’m grateful for their support.
Ganderbal faces significant challenges. Local youth who rely on sand and gravel extraction from the Sindh Nallah for their livelihoods but under SRO 105, they have been deprived of their right to operate. This issue requires immediate attention, and it’s one of the main reasons I’m contesting.
RK: Ganderbal constituency has several strong candidates including former CM Omar Abdullah. Given that you’re a new face here, isn’t this a huge challenge for you?
Mir: While there are certainly well-known candidates in the race, it doesn’t worry me much. I’m a resident of this district, and I have strong local ties. People here know me and my work, so I believe in my ability to connect with them.
RK: Er Rashid’s candidate is also contesting in Ganderbal. Do you see that as a tough challenge?
Mir: I welcome the participation of Er Rashid’s candidate, but I don’t see it as a major challenge. I’m here to serve the people, not for personal gain, and I believe that will resonate with the voters.
RK: When the Kangan constituency seat was reserved for ST, there were rumours that you wouldn’t be contesting. What changed?
Mir: That’s true. Initially, I had decided not to contest when Kangan became an ST-reserved seat. However, after discussions with the party, especially with President Mehbooba Mufti, I was given the mandate to contest in Ganderbal. I’m thankful to her and the party for their trust in me.
RK: Can you tell us about your ongoing door-to-door campaign? What are your priorities if elected?
Mir: If the people give me a chance, I’ll work tirelessly for them. My campaign has highlighted the deteriorating state of healthcare and the education system in the district. Improving these sectors is one of my top priorities, along with addressing issues related to livelihood, infrastructure, and overall development.
