A prominent boycott bastion, Palhallan chooses ballots for change this time

Srinagar, Oct 01: Changing attitudes were witnessed Tuesday as people from north Kashmir's Palhallan-a region known for its strong election boycotts- came out in large numbers to exercise their franchise in the ongoing last phase of the  J&K assembly elections.

News agency KNO reported that voters were seen standing in long queues since morning, signalling their determination to participate in the process and try to bring a change.

"We have been boycotting continuously, but that has only added to our miseries and nothing else," said Manzoor Ahmed, a local resident who was among the first to cast his vote.

Ahmed expressed hope that by choosing ballots over boycotts, the people of Palhallan can finally address the issues that have plagued the area for years.

"We are casting our votes to end the circumstances that have led to our miserable situation. We are hopeful of a better future," he added.

Similarly, many voters echoed similar sentiments, citing the lack of basic facilities in the region as a key reason for turning up at the polling booths.

"We are hopeful that by voting, we can bring development and improve the basic amenities that Palhallan has been deprived of for so long," said another resident in the queue.