Srinagar, May 20: In a significant show of democratic engagement, the Baramulla Parliament Constituency in northern Kashmir witnessed a high voter turnout today during the fifth phase of the LokSabha elections. Defying calls for a boycott, voters emphasised their desire for development and progress in rural areas.
In areas such as Wagoora, Rafiabad, and Kreeri, which had previously seen low voter turnout, there was a marked increase in participation. From early morning, polling stations buzzed with activity as voters of all ages flocked to cast their ballots, creating a festive atmosphere.
Voters cited development and the upgrading of basic facilities as their primary concerns, alongside addressing the issues faced by farmers and apple growers. MohdYousuf, a senior citizen from Rafiabad, expressed his commitment to democratic principles, stating, “Every problem has a solution only in a democratic setup, and that is why we have gathered here to cast our vote to decide the candidate for the parliament.”
Many voters echoed Yousuf’s sentiments, emphasizing the importance of each vote in selecting the best candidate for their needs. Ghulam Hassan Bhat from Wagoora highlighted his hopes for development, peace, and prosperity, stating, “We want a change in which the common people benefit and live their life peacefully.”
This election also marked an important opportunity for unemployed youth. Bhat noted, “This is also an opportunity for the unemployed youth to decide their candidate who can work for the unemployed youth who have been suffering badly.”
A first-time voter, aged 40, reflected on the changes in Jammu and Kashmir, stating, “This is time for change and once there is change, people would be happy. We have seen in past years how much people have suffered.”
Showkat Ahmad from Wagoora stressed the importance of holding candidates accountable, saying, “We all should exercise our franchise to make the candidates responsible. It is a right of every citizen.”
Elderly voters also voiced their concerns. MohdAssadullah from Kreeri highlighted the need for better healthcare and other facilities for the elderly, while an octogenarian voter from KandiBaramulla expressed hope that the winning candidate would advocate for the poor and weaker sections of society, particularly regarding the rising cost of electricity.
Dilshada (name changed), a woman voter from Tangmarg, raised the issue of unaffordable electricity charges, reflecting the financial struggles of her family. “My husband is a laborer, and we are hardly able to meet our daily needs, let alone save money. We live a miserable life,” she said.
First-time voter Maroofa from Kreeri emphasized the need for better educational facilities, saying, “I am a student. I still face a lot of issues in terms of education and transport facilities. The candidate we voted for should work for the betterment of education facilities.”
Overall, the voters of Baramulla displayed a strong commitment to democracy, with a clear focus on electing representatives who would address their developmental concerns and improve their quality of life.Voters turn out in huge numbers in border constituency Uri as people vote for employment and development.
