First-Time Voters After 70 Years: WPRs, Valmikis, and Gorkhas Celebrate Historic Moment in J&K

Jammu, Oct 01: For the first time since independence, West Pakistan Refugees (WPRs), Valmikis, and Gorkhas cast their votes in Jammu and Kashmir, a milestone made possible by the abrogation of Article 370 and Article 35A under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government.

Mohan Singh Bhatti, 76, a WPR, expressed his joy at this historic moment. “My father and I fought for this for decades. Today, we’re voting after 70 years, right on the zero line,” Bhatti said, adding that he hopes to see PM Modi’s promises of permanent settlement and separate accommodation for WPRs fulfilled.

The Valmiki community, which had been deprived of voting rights for decades, also shared their excitement. Sanjay Kumar called it their “Diwali,” saying, “Casting votes is the first step toward a better future, with permanent housing and education for our children.”

Representing the Gorkha Samaj, Preeti Sharma cast her vote for the first time, expressing happiness and a sense of belonging. “Despite living in Jammu all our lives, we were never able to vote for our candidates. Today, that changes,” she said.

After casting their votes, people from all three communities celebrated by distributing sweets and congratulating each other. Their main demands include permanent housing, better job opportunities, education for their children, and improved infrastructure. This moment marks a significant step toward inclusion and equality for these long-marginalized communities.