Jammu votes after 10 years: Amid hope for change, under shadow of terror, poll cauldron bubbles
Kalna Dhanu Parole, situated south of the Pir Panjal range, is a village difficult to access, with inconsistent or nonexistent cell and internet service, according to the report (Sanjay Khajuria). The residents, accustomed to uncertainty and wary of nightly door knocks, live in precarious conditions, especially following a deadly terrorist ambush near Badnota on July 8 that killed five soldiers of the 22 Garhwal Rifles. A resident from the village was arrested on suspicion of aiding Pakistani terrorists.
This summer has been particularly deadly for the Jammu region, with 15 security personnel killed since May and a total of 52 such casualties since 2021. Civilians have also suffered from terrorist attacks, leaving deep scars on the community. In response, the administration has increased security efforts, deploying additional paramilitary forces across districts with heightened terrorist activity such as Rajouri, Poonch, Doda, Kathua, and Reasi.
The elections have brought hope to the residents, eager to have their voices represented again. Streets are filled with election activities, including nukkad meetings and public rallies in both cities and remote villages. Politicians are actively engaging with constituents, promising to address the many problems people face.
At a recent political meeting in Kalna Dhanu Parole, held in a clearing among pine trees, local politician Rajinder K., who is aspiring to contest the elections, spoke of change and hope for a better tomorrow. Residents listened with a mix of
