Five years after a tragic loss, Shagun Parihar has made history as the lone female candidate from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to win a seat in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections. She triumphed in the Kishtwar constituency, defeating seasoned politician Sajad Ahmed Kitchloo by just 521 votes.
Shagun’s journey into politics is deeply personal. She lost her father and uncle in a terror attack five years ago, which has profoundly influenced her commitment to the region. Her victory is not just a personal achievement but a tribute to all families affected by violence. “This election is about all those who have sacrificed for our country,” she stated, emphasizing her dedication to ensuring safety and security in Kishtwar.
Election Highlights
- Vote Count: Shagun received 29,053 votes, while Kitchloo garnered 28,532.
- Celebration: After her victory, BJP supporters celebrated with traditional drums and flags, chanting slogans like “Bharat Mata Ki Jai.”
- Political Context: Shagun’s win is part of a larger success for the BJP, which secured 27 seats in total during this election.
Priorities and Promises
Shagun has pledged to focus on several key issues:
- Security: Given Kishtwar’s history of violence, ensuring the safety of its residents will be her top priority.
- Employment: She aims to create job opportunities for educated youth in the area, addressing a significant concern among the local population.
Her campaign received significant backing from high-profile leaders like Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah. They praised her commitment to the families of martyrs and highlighted her as a symbol of resilience against terrorism.
Shagun is one of only three women who won seats in this election. Her victory represents a step forward for women’s representation in Jammu and Kashmir politics. Alongside her, other female candidates like Sakeena Masood and Shamima Firdous also secured wins in their respective constituencies.
Shagun Parihar’s election marks a significant moment not only for herself but for the community she represents. Her focus on peace, progress, and security resonates with many voters who have endured hardship due to violence. As she embarks on this new chapter, Shagun embodies hope for a brighter future in Kishtwar and beyond.