Sopore, the ‘Chota London,’ has been politically marginalized in terms of development due to the effects of violence and unrest. Now, as the parliament has paved the way for assembly elections, the people seek peace, development, and progress.
Vaiz Zargar
As J&K prepares for the upcoming assembly elections, every constituency is a hotspot of discussions about what they want from their representatives. In the same line, I tried to cover up the public opinion of my town sopore. Conversations in the town are growing louder regarding what qualities an ideal MLA should possess. Many residents believe that instead of rhetoric about Article 370, autonomy, or statehood, candidates should focus on real, pressing issues like development, infrastructure, education, healthcare, and unemployment. Sopore, a historically significant town, needs a representative who can address its current challenges and create lasting solutions for its future.
Arif Qadri, a teacher from Amargarh, told me, “We don’t need an MLA who makes hollow promises about bringing back Article 370. What we truly need is someone who focuses on education. Our schools lack basic infrastructure, and teachers are often overburdened. An ideal MLA should ensure that every child in Sopore has access to quality education.
Nusrat Jan, a shopkeeper from Warpora:
Nusrat Jan, a shopkeeper from Warpora, expressed his frustration, saying, “I have lived in Sopore all my life, and the roads in many areas are still in terrible condition. My hope is for an MLA who will improve infrastructure—paved roads, better drainage, and functioning streetlights. We deserve basic civic amenities. I don’t want to hear about autonomy; I want action on the ground.”
Bilal Ahmed, a student from Sopore Town, expressed emotionally, “As a student, I have endured immense suffering due to the unrest and violence over the past decade. Sopore used to be in the news constantly because it was a hotspot for violence. I no longer want any leader to deceive me with promises about Article 370, statehood, or autonomy. I want them to focus on education, development, and, most importantly, policies that will sustain this peace.”
Sameena Bhat, a healthcare worker from NoorBagh, said, “Healthcare is one of the most crucial facilities. We’ve seen past political leaders make false promises about providing equipment for our district hospital in Sopore, but none of those promises were fulfilled. As a healthcare worker, I want proper facilities to be made available to the citizens of Sopore, especially in terms of healthcare. My expectation from the upcoming MLA is to prioritize healthcare and ensure our hospitals are fully equipped to serve the community.”
Tariq Mir, a fruit trader from Sopore, shared, “Sopore is known as the Apple Town of Kashmir, and our economy heavily depends on apples. It’s true that in recent years, the transportation of apple trucks has improved due to the government’s focus on NH44. However, many aspects of Kashmir’s fruit industry remain unattended. I want an MLA who can help improve the supply chain, storage, and marketing facilities. Let’s focus on economic growth, not political distractions.”
Insha Bashir, a college student from Tarzoo, recalled, “I remember the days of 2010 when it was really tough, especially for girls, to even step out to attend college because we never knew when a gunfight might start, and we’d have to run. For women in Sopore, safety is a major concern. We need more streetlights, better policing, and safer public spaces. Our MLA should take women’s issues seriously and work towards making the town safer for everyone.”
Abdul Gani, , a retired government employee from Achabal, said, “I want a representative who will work with integrity. We’ve heard promises before about autonomy and Article 370, but our real issues remain unsolved. Let the MLA focus on transparency, good governance, and making our administration accountable to the people.”
Zubair Ahmad, an entrepreneur from New Colony Sopore, said: “Sopore has immense potential for tourism. An MLA should focus on developing this sector, improving the local economy by attracting tourists, and creating jobs. We don’t need speeches about the past, we need a vision for the future.”
Shabir Ali, a farmer from Seer Jagir, said: “Water scarcity is becoming a major problem for agriculture. The new MLA should take steps to improve irrigation facilities and ensure that farmers get timely access to resources like seeds and fertilizers. We need solutions, not political slogans.”
Ayesha Qazi, a homemaker from Model Town, said: “Education for girls needs to be prioritized. Many girls drop out after primary school due to a lack of resources and safety concerns. The MLA should ensure that education is accessible, affordable, and safe for all.”
Javed Dar, a social activist from Chinkipora, said: “The youth in Sopore need platforms where they can showcase their talents. Whether it’s sports, art, or entrepreneurship, we need an MLA who will build community centers, organize events, and provide opportunities for the younger generation.”
Parvez Shah, a school principal from Dangarpora, said: “I would like to see an MLA who is committed to improving the education system by focusing on teacher training, better infrastructure in schools, and scholarships for meritorious students. These are the real issues that need attention.”
Shazia Lone, a tailor from Shalimar Colony, said: “More focus should be given to small businesses. Many women like me rely on our home-based businesses to make a living. We need an MLA who will help us access loans, provide workshops for skill development, and create local markets for our products.”
Farooq Rather, a former panchayat member from Ningli, said: “We have many resources, but they are underutilized. The MLA should focus on utilizing funds efficiently and bringing in projects that benefit the local economy, whether it’s better roads, healthcare, or employment opportunities. We need progress, not empty promises.”
Raheel Makhdoomi, an IT professional from Khushal Matoo, said: “In this digital age, connectivity is crucial. Our MLA should prioritize internet access and technological advancements so that Sopore doesn’t fall behind. We need to create opportunities for the younger generation in tech, not waste time on political debates about past issues.”
The collective opinion from Sopore residents is very clear, they want an MLA who is committed to tackling the pressing issues affecting the town. From infrastructure development to education, healthcare, and employment generation, the town is looking for a leader who prioritizes real, tangible progress. Many residents are disillusioned by candidates who focus on political grandstanding, especially when it comes to issues like Article 370. The people of Sopore are ready to support a candidate who listens, acts, and delivers, focusing on the betterment of their lives rather than making promises that are far removed from their day-to-day concerns.
