First time voters throng polling stations in south Kashmir

Anantnag, Sep 18: The first-time voters in south Kashmir turned out in good numbers at polling stations on Wednesday , eager to play their part in shaping the future .

For many, this was not just about casting their vote but about voicing their aspirations for employment, development, and peace in the valley.

From Anantnag to Pulwama, young men and women lined up at the polling booths, some with ink-stained fingers proudly showing off the mark of their participation in democracy. Many of these first-time voters expressed hope that their involvement would bring tangible change, addressing the longstanding issues of unemployment and underdevelopment that what they said have plagued south Kashmir.

The enthusiasm of first-time voters was palpable as they engaged in conversations about the future of Kashmir. For many, this was not just a civic duty but a chance to influence the trajectory of their lives and the lives of future generations.

"This is the first time I am voting, and I feel like I have the power to bring change," said Bilal Ahmad, a 20-year-old first time voter at Bijbehara. "We have struggled with unemployment for so long. I have many friends who have finished their degrees, but they sit idle at home with no jobs. We want jobs and opportunities. I am voting with the hope that the candidates we choose will deliver on their promises."

Like other parts of J&K, unemployment remains a major concern for the youth across south Kashmir, where job opportunities in the public and private sectors are scarce, pushing many educated young people into frustration.

For voters like Shazia Jan, a 22-year-old graduate, the lack of employment opportunities is a personal struggle now. "I finished my degree last year, but I am still unemployed," she said, adding that it’s disheartening to see that even after so much hard work, they are having no jobs. “This election gives me hope that the new government will focus on employment for the youth and provide us with opportunities that allow us to stay here in Kashmir instead of looking outside for work."

But employment is not the only concern. The youth of south Kashmir are also yearning for stability and peace that has seen its fair share of turmoil over the past decades. Many first-time voters said that without peace, no meaningful development could take place.

Asif Hussain, a 19-year-old student from Shopian said peace in the valley is the solution to most of the things. "We’ve grown up witnessing violence and uncertainty. Earlier every day, we used to hear about clashes, shutdowns, and fear in the streets. It has changed now,” he said, adding that they want to live normal lives like other young people across India. “My vote today is for peace and security so that we can move forward and build our future."

For Nasreen Bano, a 21-year-old from Awantipora, the election symbolises a new beginning. "I’m excited and hopeful," she said. "We want a common future where women like me feel safe, where we don’t fear going out after dark, and where we have basic amenities. More than anything, we want peace, because without it, there can be no progress."

South Kashmir, which has often been at the heart of the valley's unrest, has been witnessing a growing sense of frustration among its younger population, particularly due to the lack of infrastructure and opportunities. Yet, many first-time voters expressed optimism that this election could be the turning point.

Zahid Mir, a 23-year-old from Tral said that they need better roads, schools, hospitals, and most of all, development in their villages. “I’ve never seen proper facilities here, and every election we hear promises, but nothing changes,” he said. “ This time, we are hoping for a government that cares about development and brings us the infrastructure we desperately need."

Fatima, an 18-year-old from Pampore, voting for the first time said that they want innovation and opportunities for the young people here. “We have so much talent, but without support from the government, it goes to waste,” she said. “This is our time to vote for a future where we are heard, where we can contribute to the progress of the valley."

"This is our time," said Imran, a 19-year-old college student. "We are voting for our future, for our dreams, and for the betterment. I hope our votes lead to the change we need."