Srinagar: A poignant moment during the final phase of the assembly elections in occupied Jammu and Kashmir has spotlighted the deeper issues underlying the electoral process. Bibi Begum, a 75-year-old woman, made an emotional appeal at a polling station in Sagipora, Rafiabad, revealing the personal hardships faced by many in the region amid what she and others call “sham” elections.
According to Kashmir Media Service, Begum, whose son has been imprisoned for three years, tearfully recounted her struggles in caring for her family, including a paralyzed son and another who barely makes ends meet as a laborer. Her visit to the polling station was driven by desperation to have her son released: “I voted today so that my voice is heard, and my son can be freed,” she stated, expressing her sense of helplessness.
The narrative of hardship and unmet governmental promises extends beyond Begum’s personal story, encapsulating the frustrations of many residents facing economic difficulties, rising unemployment, and unfulfilled political promises. The sentiments of disenfranchisement are echoed by Ghulam Qadir, a shopkeeper from Sopore, who voiced concerns over crippling power tariffs and the need for economic relief. Meanwhile, the youth of the region, including Fayaz Ahmed Khoja from Langate, lament the lack of job opportunities despite having formal education.
These stories collectively challenge the official portrayals of the elections, suggesting that for many, the electoral process has not translated into meaningful change or resolution of grievances.