Vote a sacred trust, demands genuine representation: Tarigami

Kulgam, Sept 09: Communist Party of India (Marxist) leader Mohamad Yousuf Tarigami on Monday said it is of paramount importance for representatives to be honest in addressing public issues, asserting that a vote is a trust given by the people.
The CPI(M) leader addressed a series of rallies in the Kulgam constituency, speaking to gatherings in various villages, including Kokergund, Kangikullah, Khanpora, Yamrach, Desan, Hanger, Bihibagh, Chech Hajan, Daderkoot, Sofipora, and Akipora, the party said in a statement.
Tarigami said the assembly is not a place for religious rituals but a platform to address the aspirations, issues, and demands of the people. He said the purpose of becoming an assembly member is to create laws that reflect the interests of the people.
“Today, people need electricity, which is crucial for business livelihoods and for students to study. But where is the electricity? We must speak up in the assembly because the rivers of Jammu and Kashmir—our rivers—are generating electricity for other regions, and we need to demand our fair share so that the darkness ends, and our students get some relief. Yet, electricity tariffs are rising,” he said.
Tarigami criticised the current government’s claims of “Vikas” (development) and “Sabka Saath” (inclusivity), calling it “inclusive darkness” and said that there is no real development to showcase.
“Politics is a mission for me, and that’s why I haven’t changed faces. My goal is to look the current government in the eye and tell them that Kashmiris reached out to them, but instead of embracing us, they chose to turn away,” he said.
Referring to a recent program in Kulgam, he questioned the claims of some members who said they were “banned” from speaking. “If they were banned, how are they delivering speeches now? Which doctor did they consult to cure their supposedly ‘sealed’ throats?” Tarigami said, mocking their claims.