In a striking scene at a recent rally in Ganderbal, Omar Abdullah’s act of removing his cap and placing it before the public was more than a gesture; it was a reflection of the deep sense of rejection and realization that now grips him. Once confident in the old ways of political maneuvering, Abdullah found himself in the position of not just requesting but practically begging for votes, laying bare the true beauty of democracy and its process.
Before the abrogation of Article 370, political engineering often secured electoral victories, with leaders relying on behind-the-scenes strategies rather than genuine public engagement. The voters’ support was assumed, not earned. But today, the game has changed. The electorate no longer tolerates arrogance or entitlement; they demand humility and sincerity.
Omar Abdullah’s act of laying his cap before the people is a powerful symbol of this new reality. It signifies a shift from the old, manipulative tactics to a politics where leaders must truly connect with the voters and respect their power. No longer can politicians rely on engineered outcomes. Instead, they must confront the people directly, seeking their support with genuine humility.
This is the real beauty of democracy—where every vote counts, and where even the most established leaders must humble themselves before the electorate. The days of political engineering are over, and what remains is the pure, unfiltered will of the people. It is a reminder that in a democracy, no leader can take their position for granted. They must earn it, not through manipulation, but through respect, service, and genuine connection with those they seek to represent.
