Nearly a decade after the last elections, the Election Commission of India (ECI) announced the election dates for Assembly elections for Jammu and Kashmir on Friday, Rising Kashmir correspondent Aatif Qayoom spoke to various sections of society to gather their views on this announcement. Here is what the people had to say about this “festival of democracy.”
Hurmat Khan
India is considered the largest democracy in the world, where the will of the people ultimately decides the course of action. Power must be in the hands of the people to frame and execute their policies. The Election Commission of India has finally declared elections in Jammu and Kashmir, a step that is not only welcome but also provides a breath of fresh air to the democratic process. Power is being transferred back to the people, allowing them to design and shape their policies. All eyes were on the Election Commission of India to announce the dates for these elections, and today, the news came that elections will be held in three phases starting on September 18, 2024. This announcement has led to widespread celebration, as people feel empowered to choose their representatives and make their voices heard. Just a day after the 78th Independence Day celebrations, this news has brought even more joy to the people, who are thrilled to see the restoration of democracy.
Adv Nadiya Rasheed Naik
The Election Commission of India’s decision to conduct elections in Kashmir is a significant step toward restoring democratic governance and normalcy in the region. After decades of turmoil, this move signals a meaningful shift toward peaceful resolution and a return to democratic processes. The development of Kashmir’s political landscape is crucial for the region’s economic growth, infrastructure development, and social harmony. These elections will provide a platform for the people to exercise their franchise and have a say in the governance of the region.
Noor UL Shahbaz
Election dates in the erstwhile state of Jammu & Kashmir, now a Union Territory, have been announced by the Election Commission of India after a long gap of over five years. Political promises have been made, and judicial pronouncements regarding the restoration of statehood and elections are significant and need to be fulfilled for a vibrant democratic system. Governments are a reflection of the general will and are meant to uplift the common masses to higher standards in education, health, poverty eradication, job creation in both the government and private sectors, elimination of inequalities of all kinds, and advancement in science and technology.
People in the regions of Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh are still lacking basic facilities in almost every sector. Just a day ago, India celebrated its 78th Independence Day, but the common people are still struggling to break free from the clutches of capitalism. The rich get richer, and the poor get poorer—this is the central idea of the system we live in, with political regimes being the main culprits. People always rely on hope, and once again, we hope for a better future in a democratic system that should listen to and address the common voices and problems as much as possible.
Reshi Shahid
The announcement of elections is a welcome step toward restoring democracy in Jammu & Kashmir. It allows people to make their voices heard and address their issues. These elections will enable the replacement of bureaucracy with true people’s representation, ensuring better resolution of basic grievances. The beauty of democracy lies in its flexibility, allowing for choices and changes. I hope that the people, especially the youth, will participate wholeheartedly in this democratic process and help establish a new local setup that reflects their aspirations and needs.
Sheikh Jamshid
As the Assembly elections approach in Jammu & Kashmir, people need to vote wisely. We need to empower young talents and intellectuals in decision-making. The Election Commission has announced that the 2024 polls will occur in three phases, starting on September 18. I am happy and grateful to the central government and the Election Commission for keeping their promise. This development is a testament to India’s democratic values, and we must seize this opportunity to ensure that the voices of the youth and intellectuals are heard in shaping the future of Jammu and Kashmir.
