The political chessboard of Kashmir’s Baramulla parliamentary seat is witnessing a fascinating turn of events. The stage is set for a triangular contest featuring heavyweights: Omar Abdullah, Vice President of National Conference; Sajjad Gani Lone, Chairman of People’s Conference; and the unstinting Engineer Rashid of the Awami Ittehad Party. The dynamics have been dramatically altered by Abrar Rashid, who has injected a fresh fervor into the campaign for his father, transforming it into a riveting three-cornered battle.
Incarcerated Engineer Rashid’s son Abrar has revolutionized his father's election campaign into a veritable tidal wave within just two weeks. His rallies across North Kashmir’s hinterlands have amass considerable crowds, stirring an emotional chord among the Kashmiri populace. Rashid’s current imprisonment intensifies the emotional undertones fueling public sympathy for his cause.
Interestingly, the traditionally steadfast separatist bastions of Hajin and Sopore in Northern Kashmir are demonstrating substantial popular support for Abrar Rashid. The enthusiasm evidenced by the young electorate in these areas indicates an unprecedented shift in a region typically characterized by turmoil over the past 35 years.
The election race in Baramulla, once considered a straightforward bout between Omar Abdullah and Sajjad Gani, has been turned on its head by the energetic campaigns of Engineer Rashid’s son, bringing the young voters' passion and high hopes into the limelight.
Local sentiments reveal that youth turnout in the Valley’s electoral processes has surged, marking a significant change from previous trends. A local shares the heightened excitement surrounding this election – a sentiment never seen before in the Valley.
Abrar Rashid, fervently campaigning for his father, is singularly focused on achieving his release. Drawing vast support without any formal funding, he aims to leverage the power of the people and their votes. Declaring no enmity with any party, he dedicates himself solely to advocating for his father's cause.
