The hangama in the Assembly today over the proposal to restore Jammu and Kashmir’s special status was a telling snapshot of our political landscape. The JKNC-led alliance celebrated the passing of the resolution as a historic win, while the BJP vehemently opposed it, staging protests. The PDP criticized the move, calling it a “half-hearted step.” Meanwhile, the AAP voiced support, and Awami Ittihad expressed discontent, claiming betrayal once again. This political tug-of-war was as predictable as it was exhausting, with each party positioning itself to appeal to its respective voter base.
However, what remains deeply troubling is the disconnect between the legislative agenda and the people’s everyday struggles. Far removed from the hangama of the Assembly, the common citizens of Kashmir face an array of urgent, unsolved issues: a critical electricity crisis, lack of access to clean water, soaring unemployment, and a daily battle for basic sustenance. These hardships paint a stark contrast to the preoccupations of our leaders, raising a question that echoes in the minds of all Kashmiris: Are our leaders truly listening?
The political leaders who claim to represent the people have once again shown a tendency to prioritize symbolic victories and ideological grandstanding over real solutions. While political points are scored in debates on autonomy and special status, there is little evidence of a coherent plan to address the fundamental needs that define the quality of life for ordinary citizens. Power outages disrupt daily routines, families struggle to find clean drinking water, and an entire generation grapples with shrinking job opportunities.
The broader picture remains bleak for those outside the Assembly walls. Without meaningful efforts to tackle these issues, legislative moves—no matter how historic they might seem—will do little to change the reality on the ground. Kashmiris are left watching this political hangama, aware that their real struggles are sidelined as leaders vie for ideological wins.
It is time that all political representatives—whether in favor or opposition—acknowledge their responsibility to address the day-to-day struggles of their constituents. Symbols and statuses, however powerful, will never replace the pressing need for clean water, reliable electricity, and jobs. True leadership lies not in passing resolutions or staging protests, but in ensuring that the needs of the people are met.
