Breaking Barriers: Shagun Parihar Emerges as Lone BJP Woman Candidate to Win Kishtwar Assembly Seat
KISHTWAR, Oct 8: Shagun Parihar, the sole female candidate from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections, made a significant mark by winning the Kishtwar Assembly seat, a victory that comes five years after the tragic loss of her father and uncle in a terror attack. Her win, which adds to the BJP’s tally of 27 successful candidates in this election, underscores the increasing representation of women in a region where they have historically faced numerous challenges.
Parihar emerged victorious by securing 29,053 votes, defeating veteran National Conference (NC) leader and former minister Sajad Ahmed Kitchloo by a narrow margin of 521 votes. Kitchloo, who had previously held the seat in 2002 and 2008, garnered 28,532 votes, while the People’s Democratic Party’s (PDP) Firdos Ahmed Tak managed only 997 votes, resulting in the forfeiture of his deposit. Throughout the counting process, Parihar maintained a lead, showcasing her ability to connect with the electorate.
In her first remarks after being declared elected, Parihar expressed deep gratitude to the people of Kishtwar for their support, stating, “I bow before the people of Kishtwar for their faith in me and my party. Their support is deeply appreciated. I am humbled by their endorsement.” She articulated that her victory transcends her personal achievements, representing the collective voice of the nationalist population in Jammu and Kashmir. “It is their blessing,” she noted, highlighting her commitment to serving the community.
Addressing the pressing security concerns that have historically plagued Kishtwar, Parihar emphasized that ensuring the safety and security of the region will be her top priority. She stated, “My message to the people is to strive for peace, progress, and prosperity in the region. I will work for the safety and security of the region.” This pledge reflects her understanding of the delicate socio-political landscape of Jammu and Kashmir and the urgent need for effective governance in ensuring peace.
Following her election victory, hundreds of BJP supporters gathered in Kishtwar, celebrating with traditional drum beats and party flags, also honoring the win of Sunil Sharma in the Paddar Nagsene constituency. The atmosphere was charged with enthusiasm, with supporters chanting slogans like “Bharat Mata Ki Jai” in celebration of their party’s success.
Despite her tragic family history, Parihar’s journey into politics has been characterized by grassroots engagement, beginning during her student years. Currently pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy in Electronics, she emphasized that her election victory represents not just her personal triumph but also honors all families who have sacrificed for the nation. “My victory honors all those who have sacrificed their lives fighting terrorism and protecting the country,” she remarked, highlighting her sense of responsibility towards the larger community.
Parihar also identified employment as a crucial issue in the region, emphasizing the urgent need to create job opportunities for educated youth. Her commitment to addressing these challenges was underscored by the extensive campaigning support she received from prominent leaders such as Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah, both of whom praised her dedication to the families of martyrs in the area.
In addition to Parihar’s significant win, other women candidates also made their mark in the elections. Former NC minister Sakeena Masood achieved victory in the D H Pura assembly segment in Kulgam district, while NC’s Shamima Firdous won from the Habbakadal constituency in Srinagar district. Conversely, Iltija Mufti, the daughter of former chief minister Mehbooba Mufti, faced defeat in the Surgufwara-Bijbehara constituency, along with former PDP minister Asiea Naqash, who lost her bid from the Hazratbal seat.
Overall, Shagun Parihar’s victory not only signifies a personal achievement but also reflects a broader trend of increased female representation in Jammu and Kashmir politics, highlighting the need for security, development, and opportunity in the region.
