Suhail Khan
Sopore, Oct 01: As the final phase of assembly elections begins on the 40 seats, the residents of north Kashmir’s Sopore town said that they are casting their vote for Article 370.
Speaking exclusively to Kashmir Despatch, many voters at different polling stations in Sopore assembly constituency said that they are voting for the first time and this vote is not for any development, but for their rights that were taken away from them. They are casting their vote today to bring back that right, for the peaceful atmosphere of the Kashmir.
Ghulam Nabi, in his 60s, told Kashmir Despatch that it is a great sign that the people of Sopore are coming forward to cast their votes in large numbers today. This sign will definitely help the town reach great heights.
He said that in the past, Sopore had boycotted the polls, which had caused them a lot of suffering, but now everyone has realized how important the vote is, not only for development but also for safe living. Sopore will make history again today.
Muneeb-ul-Haq, a journalist based in Sopore, told Kashmir Despatch that he voted for the first time in his life, voting against hate politics and proxies.
Another young, budding journalist, Waris Fayaz, after casting his first time vote, told Kashmir Despatch that he cast his vote to fight for the identity of Kashmir, which was snatched away.
Saima, a young student, also expressed the same sentiment after casting her vote. She said, “I am a first-time voter, and this vote is only for the protection of my rights.” She said that the youth had been facing several hardships for the last five years, ever since the August 5, 2019 decision to scrap Article 370 by the Central government. “I have cast my vote hoping that the candidate who is elected will help in resolving our problems,” she said.
Suhail Khan is a filmmaker, content writer, and freelance journalist.
