TDD Correspondent
Srinagar,(TDD), Seeking restoration of Article 370 through a vote may remain a bigger question for the people, but the traditional demands of voting for Sadak, Pani and Bijli continue to dominate the third phase in which 40 seats are going to polls. In fact, Bijli (power) has taken the centre stage for in this last phase of polls as majority of voters claimed that they are voting to end the inflated power bills and that they want to see removal of smart electricity meters.
Talking to the Diplomat. Digital exclusively, voters in Gulmarg, Uri, Karnah and Trehgam constituencies stated that it was for the candidates who would win to take a call on how they would ensure restoration of Article 370 but they are voting for Sadak, Pani and Bijli. “We want better roads, tap water,” said Ghulam Mohiduin Wani, a resident of Gulmarg.
He said road, water and power will remain a big issue every time there is an election. Joining the chorus, a group of youth at Gulmarg said that post delimitation the area of earlier Assembly constituencies has changed drastically. “So, demands too have changed. We need roads in the areas that are yet to see macdamisation. Similarly, the areas that yet to be connected with the wires for round the clock power supply, need electricity,” said a youth, Adil Nazir, adding that the issue is that candidates who will win should come up to the expectations of people.
In border district of Uri, there was a great demand for power, water and better roads. “We have seen the worst in the past so many years but ever since there is a ceasefire pact, we have heaved a sight of relief,” said Abdur Rashid Khatana, a resident of Uri, adding that “better education is a major demand for the people of Uri, but at the same time, there is a need for ensuring tap water and proper transport service in our area.”
In Karnah, another border Assembly constituency, people could be seen making beelines outside the polling stations. The voters were enthusiastic to see better power situation in their area once they vote. “Quality roads is what we are voting for. Besides, we need removal of electricity meters from everywhere in Kashmir. Tap waters should be given to us as we have abundant water resources in our area,” said a group of women voters. (TDD)
