In a momentous occasion, Ruldu Ram, a 90-year-old man who migrated from Pakistan during the Partition, cast his vote for the first time in his life. His joy was palpable, reflecting the sentiment of hundreds of West Pakistan refugees in the border town of RS Pura, Jammu and Kashmir, who participated in the Assembly elections. This historic moment marked a significant shift in the political landscape of J&K, as communities who had been denied political representation for 75 years finally had their voices heard.
The abrogation of Articles 370 and 35-A in 2019 proved to be a turning point for these communities. Around two lakh individuals from three communities – West Pakistan refugees (WPR), Valmikis, and Gurkhas – residing in Jammu, Samba, and Kathua districts, were granted domicile status. This status granted them native rights, including the right to vote in the Assembly elections, access to employment opportunities, education, and land ownership. Previously, they were only allowed to vote in Lok Sabha elections.
The jubilation among the West Pakistan refugees was evident. Labha Ram Gandhi, president of the West Pakistan Refugees Action Committee, declared it a “national festival” and a “red-letter day” for the communities. He emphasized their newfound participation in the democratic process of Jammu and Kashmir. The community, which had previously felt like “unwanted citizens,” celebrated this milestone with parades, prayers, and sweets.
The celebrations extended beyond RS Pura to Samba and Akhnoor, highlighting the widespread joy among the community. Parveen Kumar, whose family fled during the Partition, described the day as a lifting of a “decades-old curse.” He expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for revoking Article 370, stating it had transformed their lives.
Mohinder Kumar, who arrived from Jhelum town in Pakistan, echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the removal of a “black spot” on their foreheads, signifying their long-denied citizenship. Eighty-year-old Sikh Magar Singh, who lost four family members to communal violence during the Partition, highlighted the restoration of respect and dignity for over two lakh people. He expressed appreciation for the grant of citizenship rights, including the right to vote, work, and own land.
The Gurkha community in Jammu’s Gorkha Nagar also celebrated their newly acquired voting rights. Suresh Chhetri, a member of the community, described it as a “dream come true,” expressing gratitude to Prime Minister Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah for their decision to revoke Article 370.
The participation of West Pakistan refugees, Valmikis, and Gurkhas in the Assembly elections marked a historic chapter in the political landscape of Jammu and Kashmir. It signifies a significant step towards inclusivity and the empowerment of communities who had long been denied their fundamental rights. This event symbolizes a promise of a more just and democratic future for all residents of J&K.
