Women cast vote for redressal of issues
Irfan Tramboo
SRINAGAR, May 13: During Phase-4 of the Lok Sabha elections in Srinagar Parliamentary constituency today, women voters experienced a novel initiative called ‘Pink Polling Stations’.
The establishment of these Polling Stations not only streamlined the voting process but also created a more welcoming environment with an all-women staff, attracting more women to participate in the election.
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One such polling booth was set up at Govt Boys Higher Secondary School, Zadibal, where women utilized the facilities provided by the authorities and were visibly pleased to receive special treatment as they arrived to cast their votes.
“I had heard about it, but I did not know they had set one up here; it really makes the polling process easy for women; it’s quick because we have to return home quickly for daily chores,” said Zareena, one woman voter at the Pink Polling Station in the Zadibal constituency.
It’s noteworthy that Pink Polling Stations are exclusively for women and are entirely managed by women, aiming to encourage female voters to cast their votes.
These specially designated Polling Stations are staffed solely by women, from the polling party and polling party agents to security personnel.
One of the female officials, busy with marking and tracking the number of votes polled at the Pink Polling Station, told Excelsior that the initiative aims to provide a safe and comfortable environment for women voters.
“There are practical measures in place to facilitate women’s participation; the Polling Station has a different look inside and out, all to streamline the process and make them comfortable,” she said.
Across the Srinagar Parliamentary constituency, officials stated that a total of 19 such Polling Stations were established for the polling day, including eight in Srinagar, four in Ganderbal, three in Pulwama, three in Budgam and one in Shopian.
Additionally, 18 youth-manned Polling Stations, 17 PwD-manned Polling Stations, and 23 Green polling stations were set up across the Parliamentary constituency.
Meanwhile, at different Polling Stations across Srinagar city, women openly stated their reasons for coming out to vote, with many emphasizing the need to address unemployment and resolve civic issues in their respective areas.
Nadia Muzaffar, 32, a Graduate from Makhdoom Sahib area of the old city, emphasized the value of voting and the importance of not wasting it under any circumstances.
“Casting a vote is a necessity; if we remain inactive, our issues will not be resolved. We must ensure that those who deserve it are victorious. I will continue to cast my vote for as long as I am alive,” she said.
Another woman voter, Suraiya, 36, from Latti Muhalla, one of the areas in the interiors of Dal Lake, lamented the lack of basic amenities in her area, noting that electing the right person would ensure the resolution of all issues.
“We are living in backward conditions, with five families sharing one house, which is common in this area. While they talk about building smart cities, our area has been left behind. Our children also want to invite their friends over, but they can’t due to the filth around,” she said.
Shamima, another voter from Maisuma area, openly criticized the present Government, stating that it has made life difficult for common people.
“They have made our lives difficult. How are those with low incomes going to pay thousands per month for electricity bills? The old age fund has been stopped. We want employment and a better life,” she said.
Rafiqa, 56, from the old city’s Nowhatta, outlined several issues the community is facing, highlighting that people have come out to vote without any pressure, seeking relief from hardships.
“We have numerous issues; young people are jobless, we lack access to rations, and Government processes have become more difficult. Since this Government came into power, we haven’t seen any relief; we remain hopeful for improvement. Today, there is no external pressure on people regarding voting; they are here of their own accord,” she said.
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