Voters’ plea: Address unemployment, infrastructure, & education

As Jammu and Kashmir prepares for its assembly elections, the Budgam Assembly constituency is at the forefront of local expectations. Residents are hopeful that this election will bring significant changes, addressing long-standing issues that have persisted in the constituency.
Mohammad Arif Bhat, a local voter from Paimas, expressed his concerns about the lack of adequate facilities in his village. “We have consistently participated in all elections, yet we feel neglected by successive governments. Our village lacks a macadamized road, a playground, and a school building, which are essential for providing relief and support to the youth and students.”
Hilal Ahmad, another voter from the Budgam district, pointed out that many villages in the area do not have access to proper drinking water facilities. He urged the government to ensure that adequate drinking water connections are provided to all villages, enabling residents to receive a reliable supply of clean water daily.
“Most government schools in the Budgam constituency lack proper infrastructure. The government must invest in improving the facilities at these schools to ensure that students receive a quality education,” he said
Ahmad said that the Budgam district has a significant number of brick kilns, which contribute to air pollution, exacerbated by the increased movement of tippers. These kilns pose a threat to human health and adversely affect the agricultural and horticultural sectors. It is imperative for the government to implement necessary measures and establish a comprehensive policy regarding these brick kilns to mitigate these issues throughout the Budgam district.
Ishrat Jan, a female voter, emphasized the need for a robust policy to support unemployed youth and allocate job reservations for orphaned children.
There are numerous orphaned children who have completed their education and are currently pursuing further studies in schools, colleges, and universities. The government should allocate five percent of job reservations for these orphans in government positions and educational institutions, enabling them to access better educational opportunities and secure employment in the governmentsector,” she said
Residents from various villages in the Budgam constituency expressed their concerns about the recent increase in electricity rates imposed by the Power Development Department.
The people of Budgam Assembly constituency have high expectations for this election, hoping that fundamental issues will be resolved once a new government is elected in Jammu and Kashmir. Will their voices be heard? Only time will tell.