Rehan Qayoom Mir
Srinagar, Oct 07 : With much anticipation and hope, Srinagar district is all set to become a centre of attraction for the workers of mainstream parties tomorrow who are desperately waiting for the poll results.
As hope grips the streets of Srinagar, the people for years have been waiting for this moment, and tomorrow, as the day begins, will be the day when the fate of Jammu Kashmir is decided. People including the workers of National Conference, PDP and Congress were seen at the gossip lounges of the city discussing the possible outcome of the recently concluded polls.
Speaking with the news agency, locals from uptown as well as from downtown Srinagar said they have been waiting for this moment for a very long time, and tomorrow their chosen leader will be sworn in as the winner.
Sahil, a local from Nowhatta, Srinagar, said they have been without a voice for so long. “I just want to wake up tomorrow and see someone in power who sees our struggles, who fights for us,” he said.
For many other residents, it isn’t about which party wins or loses, but it is about choosing their representative.
“I have seen too much in my life,” said Ghulam Ahmad Mir, an elderly man from Sonwar, Srinagar. “This election result is not for me, but for my grandchildren. I just hope I live to see them thrive in Kashmir where we make our own decisions again,” he added.
Patiently, the mood in Srinagar is hopeful, while party offices remain quiet, with no early celebrations in sight. The people, however, are preparing for something bigger than a political victory.
We deserve more than just survival, said Umias, a university student, adding we want a future here, in this land we call home.
Meanwhile, a journalist wishing not to be named shared, “We are expecting the government that comes will fulfil their promises as mentioned in manifestos, and end bureaucratic rule here. “They will work for the people, and end their suffering,” he said.
He added, “I hope the coming government also gives freedom to the media and helps us work freely.”—
