Seemari Village Challenges Politicians Over Neglected Promises Ahead of Final J&K Elections Phase

Ahead of the final phase of the J&K Assembly elections, over 400 voters in Seemari village near the LoC demand essential services such as better roads, healthcare, electricity, and mobile networks. Residents accuse politicians of neglecting their promises post-elections, relying instead on the support from the Indian Army.

A day before the climactic third phase of Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections, over 400 voters from Seemari village, known as India's 'first polling booth' along the Line of Control (LoC), have voiced demands for basic necessities. Their appeals include better road access, free electricity, immediate healthcare services, increased ration supplies, and a functional mobile network.

Residents are urging political parties and local authorities to address these pressing issues to enhance their quality of life. They express concerns that leaders forget about their promises post-elections, noting that the only consistent support in times of need—whether for employment, food, or medicine—comes from the Indian Army stationed at the LoC. Seemari village has 443 voters, comprising 226 men and 217 women.

Mohammad Sharif, a local, remarked, 'This is Seemari village, the last one on the India-Pakistan border, hosting India's first polling booth. Despite our participation in elections, we lack roads, hospitals, and electricity. Leaders seek our votes but often forget us later. It is the Army that supports us in every difficult moment.' Adding to this, Ali Asgar and Naseer Awan from the village described severe deficiencies in road connectivity, healthcare, and job opportunities, criticizing the failure of political leaders to fulfill their election promises.

As the third phase of Assembly Elections approaches on October 1, more than 3.9 million voters across seven districts in Jammu and Kashmir are set to participate. Comprehensive arrangements, including setting up 5,060 polling stations and deploying over 20,000 polling staff, have been made to ensure a smooth and hassle-free voting process.

(With inputs from agencies.)