Can 2024 election solve long standing issues?

Kupwara, Sep 29: Kupwara is bracing for a highly anticipated assembly election on October 1, as political parties and key candidates prepare to face off in what is expected to be a tightly contested race. The stakes are particularly high this year, as prominent figures from major political parties make their debut in the constituency, setting the stage for a fierce battle.

Among the leading candidates is NC Provincial President for Kashmir, Nasir Aslam Wani, who is contesting the Kupwara seat for the first time. Sajad Gani Lone, Chairman PC, is also trying his luck in Kupwara for the first time, signaling a shift in the strategy to expand its influence in Kupwara. Both candidates bring considerable political experience, but their decision to run in Kupwara adds a fresh dynamic to the race.

In addition to these newcomers, former Member of Parliament and senior PDP leader Mir Fayaz and AIP’s Firdous Baba are also vying for the seat. With such a diverse mix of candidates, the election has become a battleground of competing visions and promises, with each contender hoping to resonate with voters.

A total of 94,956 voters are registered to participate in this crucial election, comprising 47,181 men, 47,772 women, and three transgender individuals. These voters will cast their ballots at 92 polling stations spread across the Kupwara constituency. The turnout and voter sentiment will play a decisive role in determining the outcome, especially given the constituency’s history of closely contested elections. In 2014, PC candidate Advocate Bashir Ahmad Dar won by a slim margin, narrowly defeating Mir Fayaz by a few hundred votes. This razor-thin victory highlighted the deeply divided nature of the electorate, and the current race promises to be equally competitive.

This correspondent went to Kupwara and tried to comprehend the basic Issue being faced by the people and it became clear that the concerns of voters extend far beyond party loyalties or political allegiances. Residents are grappling with everyday issues, particularly the rising cost of living and the growing problem of unemployment, especially among the youth. Many locals expressed their frustration with the lack of jobs and the challenges facing the younger generation.

"We are tired of promises. What we need is action," said one resident. "Whoever wins on October 8, we need them to focus on creating jobs for our young people. They are struggling with no opportunities, and this sense of hopelessness is growing."

The demand for employment is a consistent theme among the voters, with many worried that the lack of jobs is pushing the youth towards despair and alienation. "Our youth are isolated and frustrated. They need opportunities to feel like they have a future here," another resident added, underscoring the urgency of addressing this issue. Moreover to unemployment, some residents see the potential for economic growth through border tourism.

"Kupwara has so much to offer in terms of natural beauty and cultural heritage," one local explained. "If border tourism is properly developed, it could create jobs and provide a steady source of income for our educated but unemployed youth."

The idea of developing border tourism has gained traction in recent years, with advocates arguing that it could open up new economic avenues for Kupwara and the surrounding regions. "It could be a game-changer for us. We need leaders who will invest in this sector and make it a priority,” said a local entrepreneur.

As election day approaches, the people of Kupwara are hopeful that the new leadership will address these pressing concerns, particularly in terms of economic development and job creation. While political parties and candidates continue to make their case to the electorate, the real challenge will be translating their promises into tangible change for the people of Kupwara. The future especially for its younger generation, hangs in the balance, and much will depend on who emerges victorious in this pivotal election.