Kulgam, Sep 12 : CPI (M) leader Mohamad Yousuf Tarigami on Thursday said that the people of Jammu and Kashmir deserve a fair share of the electricity generated from local rivers, provided at low tariffs.
Addressing multiple rallies as part of his election campaign in the Kulgam constituency, Tarigami spoke at gatherings in villages including Sangas, Kahroot, Tangsargam, Shalipora, Khandipora, Mohdpora, Akipora, Kheejogipora, Vesbatpora, Such, and Katrasoo.
In addition to the electricity issue, Tarigami called for the formation of a commission to investigate the killings of innocent individuals in the region, specifically naming two former Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs), Abdul Razzak Buchru and Ghulam Nabi Dar of Kulgam. He urged people to collectively demand an investigation to ensure the culprits are brought to justice.
“We need the rule of law,” he said, criticizing the government’s treatment of job-seeking youth, who are often harassed during verification processes. He said that how many are unfairly punished for having distant relatives allegedly linked to unlawful activities, even if they were not born during those times. “This government is alienating us. If I am elected to the assembly, I will make it clear that this country belongs to us, and it will be ours,” he added.
Tarigami further added that it is important to integrate youth rather than marginalize them, as exclusion hinders their employment prospects. Embracing the younger generation, he said, would foster family well-being and guide the country in a positive developmental direction.
Reflecting on the changing political landscape, he said, “What was once considered a sin—casting a vote—has now become a virtuous act. The shift in attitude and tone reveals a story people should understand. The power lies in the hands of the people, and they are the decision-makers in a democratic process. They must choose wisely.”
He pointed out that the ruling dispensation had no interest in conducting them, but the Supreme Court’s intervention and the parliamentary mandate left no other option but to proceed with the polls—