TDD Special Correspondent
Srinagar, Sep 18 (TDD) : A decade-long political silence ends today for Kulgam in South Kashmir, leaving the people of this region at a decisive turn. Known historically for its mixed political atmosphere — a mix of boycotts and thin voting margins — the region has always provided for CPI (M) leader M Y Tarigami who has been elected four times MLA from the constituency. But the political landscape has turned out to be completely different, as the Jamaat-e-Islami-backed candidate, Sayar Ahmed Reshi, now presents the biggest challenge before him.
The question is: Will Kulgam once again go to its old leader or will the electorate look for some new leadership that will lead them forward? “I am with my people and they are with me. I hope more people participate in this democratic festival that marks a return of the event after a decade to Kashmir,” the optimistic Tarigami said after casting his vote. That has been the most painful six years, but I believe with this vote we could be able to start a new chapter.
His rival, Sayar Ahmed Reshi, also sounded upbeat in his comments after casting their vote, stating that the turnout had been high and the people’s morale was upbeat. “I have cast my vote with full confidence, and the enthusiasm of the people is heartening,” Reshi said. The participation of JeI in the political process, after a long hiatus since 1987, has stirred much excitement, especially after a massive rally in Kulgam last week that shook the political scene in Kashmir.
One of the most dramatic reversals of the traditional long-held boycott trend in many parts of Kulgam is this election. Bugam is a village known hitherto for no votes being cast at all today, had long queues of voters at the polling booths. “We have realized that boycotting the polls did nothing for us.”. Today, I use my vote for peace, prosperity and the future free of violence,” he said. Lateef Ahmed Dar, a voter from Bugam who, at 50 years old, cast his first ballot. “We have lived in too much fear of others. It is a promise of an end to that.
Other rebel districts that are prone to boycotts, like Redwani, Frisal, and Qaimoh, also cast their votes very enthusiastically. Women, elderly, and first time voters are eager to exercise their franchise. “Change is bound to happen, and we are voting for it. We have lived enough bloodshed and fear. That’s what this vote indicates about wanting to see an end to all that,” said Javaid Ahmed, a young voter from Redwani.
As Kulgam welcomes this rare moment of political engagements, only time will tell whether the people will hand over their trust in the experienced Tarigami or welcome an era of change at the hands of Reshi. (TDD)
