Srinagar : The people of Palhallan, an area in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district known for its historical election boycotts, turned out in large numbers on Tuesday to cast their votes.
Reports reaching here said that voters were seen standing in long queues since morning, showing their determination to participate in the democratic process and bring about change.
“We have been boycotting continuously, but that has only added to our miseries and nothing else,” said Manzoor Ahmed, a local who was among the first to cast his vote.
He expressed hope that by choosing ballots over boycotts, the people of Palhallan can finally address the issues that have plagued the area for years. “We are casting our votes to end the circumstances that have led to our miserable situation. We are hopeful of a better future,” he added.
Similarly, many voters echoed similar sentiments, citing the lack of basic facilities in the region as a key reason for turning up at the polling booths. “We are hopeful that by voting, we can bring development and improve the basic amenities that Palhallan has been deprived of for so long,” said another resident in the queue.
The polling stations, which have often been the epicentres of conflict in past elections, were bustling with activity from early morning. The village records around 55 percent of polling.
Palhallan, once known as ‘Chotta Kandahar’ has remained in the headlines for being the separatist ideologically dominant in the early 2000s for frequent stone pelting and militancy incidents
