Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Dec 11: Describing peaceful and successful Panchayat elections in the troubled J&K state as victory of democracy, Shafiq Mir, chairman All Jammu and Kashmir Panchayat Conference (AJKPC) has said that they will not allow any sort of politics on Panchayats, saying that these are community institutions and not political fiefdom of any party.
Expressing his gratitude to the people of the State who stood against all odds and took part in these elections, Mir said that the politicians of the State should now understand that people do not believe in their dirty politics any more. It is pertinent to mention here that apart from separatists, leading mainstream political parties like National Conference and PDP led by Mehbooba Mufti had boycotted elections.
Giving his reaction on the conclusion of nine- phase Panchayat elections in the State, Shafiq Mir said it was victory of democracy in the State and lesson for those who believe in boycott politics that people think otherwise. Not only separatists, the mainstream political parties like NC and PDP had also boycotted polls. Despite this boycott call, 70 to 80% poll percentage was witnessed in these elections which shows that the people want development and democracy. Mir warned the politicians not to politicise these elections.
” It is matter of great regret that the political parties which had boycotted these elections are now organising photo- sessions with elected Sarpanches and Panches.It is shame on them. Most of the parties were against these elections and it was only Panchayat Conference which was demanding the holding of these polls. How these parties can organise photo- sessions now,” he questioned.
It is pertinent to mention here that 9-phase Panchayat elections which had started on November 17, 2018 concluded on December 11, with a successful note by electing 4499 Panchayats in the State.
Follow our WhatsApp channel