MLA Speaks: Committed to job creation & youth empowerment in J&K: MLA Shagun Parihar

Srinagar, Nov 04: Shagun Parihar, the youngest MLA in the Jammu and Kashmir assembly at 29, outlined her commitment to improving road connectivity and essential services in her constituency. Parihar, who represents the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), is one of the three women elected in Jammu and Kashmir and is among the 27 candidates from her party who emerged victorious in the recent elections.
In an interview with *Rising Kashmir*, Parihar emphasized the critical need for infrastructure development in Kishtwar, where inadequate road conditions and lack of basic services have led to tragic losses. “Road development and basic facilities like water, electricity, and healthcare are essential, and my focus will be on these issues,” she stated.
“My priority is to bring relief to the people of these remote areas. I will be a strong advocate for their rights so that they can receive the attention and services they deserve. I am committed to working relentlessly for the welfare of the region,” she added.
Parihar expressed her gratitude to the residents of Kishtwar for their trust in her and the BJP, stating, “Their support means the world to me, and I am truly humbled by their endorsement.”
The MLA’s family has a tragic history; her father, Ajit Parihar, and uncle, Anil Parihar, were victims of a terror attack on November 1, 2018, just before the panchayat elections. Anil Parihar was a senior BJP leader known for building bridges with the Muslim community in the district.
In addition to her political endeavors, Parihar is pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy in Electronics and holds a Master of Technology degree in the same field. She underscored the pressing issue of unemployment in Jammu and Kashmir, advocating for job creation for educated youth.
“My message to the people is clear: let us strive together for peace, progress, and prosperity. I am committed to working towards the safety and security of our region,” she declared, reflecting on the personal losses she has endured.
Regarding her narrow victory over former NC leader Sajad Kitchloo, who was also the Home Minister of J&K, Parihar stated, “He was a big leader, but the people’s mandate was clear.” She also addressed the passage of the Article 370 resolution by the PDP, asserting that the Congress, PDP, and JKNC have consistently betrayed the people of Jammu and Kashmir. “Article 370 is history now; there is no question of returning it. This was passed by both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, with the Supreme Court’s stamp of approval,” she affirmed.
Parihar expressed her commitment to the progress of Kishtwar and vowed not to let divisive tactics impede positive change. “Our dedication to progress is unwavering, and we will not allow baseless approaches to hinder the positive change we are working hard to achieve. While we respect differing perspectives, we call on all parties to set aside divisive agendas and work for real, measurable progress for the people we serve,” she stated.
She also expressed hope that the newly elected Speaker would maintain a healthy balance and ensure diverse perspectives are respected within the Assembly. “We must step up and work collaboratively for the progress and prosperity of the people of Jammu and Kashmir,” she concluded.