The Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections have kicked off with a bang, with a massive turnout in the first phase. An impressive 61% voter turnout was recorded across 24 seats. The enthusiasm among the people of Jammu and Kashmir is palpable as they participate in the assembly elections after a decade, eager to choose their government. Political parties have released their manifestos addressing issues like roads, electricity, and water, along with Article 370, but the roadmap for tackling unemployment remains conspicuously absent from each vision document.
Unemployment in Jammu and Kashmir has reached a critical point. Even highly educated youth find themselves jobless due to limited opportunities in both government and private sectors, leaving thousands despondent.
A story of despair emerges from the Shopian area in South Kashmir. Dr. Manzoor-ul-Hassan, a PhD scholar in Political Science, is compelled to sell nuts from a cart to support his family. Despite his efforts, he hasn't secured a job. Hassan shared that he spent 13 years working on a contractual basis in a government department but was never made permanent, eventually being shown the exit.
Manzoor’s story is one among thousands of similar tales where even those with high educational qualifications struggle to find employment, relegated to menial jobs to sustain their families. Manzoor’s story has gone viral and has the potential to influence voting patterns, as it strikes a chord with people's sentiments.
Promises were made post-Article 370 revocation, predicting increased investments in the valley, boosting job opportunities in both private and public sectors, and attracting many companies. However, the ground reality seems to suggest otherwise.
The first phase of voting has concluded in Jammu and Kashmir, with the second phase scheduled for September 25 and the third on October 1. Counting will take place on October 8th.
