Today’s Current Affairs: Kashmiris Choose Voting Over Boycott
Kashmiris in Indian-administered Kashmir are changing their protest tactics by opting to vote in the national elections, marking a significant shift from years of election boycotts. The region, which has been a stronghold of armed rebellion against Indian rule, saw a 38 percent voter turnout in the recent elections, the highest in decades. Many voters expressed their desire to elect local representatives who can voice their concerns to the Indian government and work towards the release of jailed individuals.
Traditional pro-Indian parties have now become critics of New Delhi, with voters viewing them as potential voices of the people. The shift in voting patterns reflects a deeper dissatisfaction with the government’s decisions, including the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019. While the ruling BJP has credited this decision for the increased voter turnout, opposition parties argue that it is actually a result of people’s desire to counter BJP’s influence in the region.
Despite the turnout, some voters remain skeptical about the government’s intentions and fear further changes that could impact the region’s identity. As Kashmiris navigate a complex political landscape, their choice to vote signifies a new approach to expressing dissent and advocating for their rights.
1. Why did Haroon Khan and his friends choose to vote in the parliamentary elections?
– They wanted to support the Indian government
– They were forced to vote by local politicians
– They believed voting was a new form of protest to show dissent against New Delhi
– They wanted to legitimize armed rebellion
Answer: They believed voting was a new form of protest to show dissent against New Delhi
2. What was Faheem Alam’s reason for voting in the elections?
– He wanted to support the BJP and Narendra Modi
– He believed voting for the opposition parties would benefit Kashmiris
– He didn’t like any political party but wanted to cast his vote
– He wanted to boycott the elections
Answer: He didn’t like any political party but wanted to cast his vote
3. How did mainstream Kashmiri political parties like the National Conference view the shift from boycotts to voting?
– They believed voting was a sin and should be boycotted
– They welcomed the shift in protest strategy as a positive change
– They viewed voting as ineffective and continued to boycott elections
– They supported armed rebellion against Indian rule
Answer: They welcomed the shift in protest strategy as a positive change
4. According to Sheikh Showkat Hussain, what motivated people to vote in larger numbers in this election compared to the past?
– Fear of repercussions from the Indian government
– Influence from separatist leaders advocating for voting
– BJP-phobia created by political parties like the NC and PDP
– Desire to support the BJP’s candidate in the election
Answer: BJP-phobia created by political parties like the NC and PDP
Why did Haroon Khan and his friends choose to vote in the parliamentary elections in India?
Haroon Khan and his friends chose to vote in the parliamentary elections in India as a new form of protest to express their dissent against New Delhi. They felt that boycotts and other means of protest were not effective in bringing about change, and they wanted to choose local Kashmiri representatives who could speak on their behalf to the Indian government.
What was the voter turnout like in Srinagar during the recent elections?
The voter turnout in Srinagar during the recent elections was 38 percent, which is the highest voting percentage since 1989. This increase in voter turnout is seen as a reflection of the changed political landscape in the region, where people feel they have no other option but to show their dissent through voting.
Why did Faheem Alam cast his vote in Srinagar?
Faheem Alam cast his vote in Srinagar as a way to vote for the “lesser evil” party and keep the BJP at bay. He was concerned about the BJP’s treatment of Muslims in other states of India and wanted to protect the region of Kashmir from potential harmful policies by the BJP.
What shift in protest strategy have mainstream Kashmiri political parties welcomed?
Mainstream Kashmiri political parties have welcomed the shift from boycotts to voting as a protest strategy. They believe that elections are a way for Kashmiris to convey their dissent to New Delhi’s decisions, and that by participating in elections, they can have a voice in shaping the policies that affect their lives.
Who claimed credit for the higher voter percentage in Srinagar Lok Sabha constituency?
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Indian Home Minister Amit Shah both credited the abrogation of Article 370 for the higher voter percentage in the Srinagar Lok Sabha constituency. They believed that the decision to revoke Article 370 had enhanced people’s trust in democracy and deepened its roots in Jammu and Kashmir.
What was Inayat Yousuf’s concern when casting his vote in Budgam’s Chadoora district?
Inayat Yousuf’s concern when casting his vote in Budgam’s Chadoora district was about outsiders taking over the reins of power in Kashmir. He worried that a majority for the BJP in the election could lead to further changes in Kashmir that would threaten the region’s identity.
Today's Current Affairs report from Srinagar, Indian-administered Kashmir, highlights a shift in the voting pattern as locals are choosing to participate in the ongoing parliamentary elections. Previously known for boycotting elections, residents like 21-year-old Haroon Khan are now opting to vote as a form of protest against New Delhi's control over the region. The recent abrogation of Article 370 has left many feeling voiceless, prompting them to use their vote to elect representatives who can speak for their interests. The turnout in Srinagar was 38 percent, the highest since 1989, indicating a changing political landscape in the Kashmir Valley. However, concerns remain about the BJP's policies and their impact on the region's Muslim-majority population. With mainstream political parties welcoming the shift towards voting, the elections have become a platform for Kashmiris to express their dissent and reclaim their identity.
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