Kishtwar, nestled amidst the mesmerizing landscapes of Jammu and Kashmir, holds immense potential for tourism and economic growth. However, the promises made by the current MLA, Shagun Parihar, during her election campaign seem to remain largely unfulfilled. While she frequently speaks about the prosperity of the area, the ground reality tells a different story.
One of the key promises made by Shagun Parihar during her campaign was the promotion of tourism in Kishtwar. The region, with its breathtaking natural beauty, has the potential to become a major tourist destination. However, the lack of a comprehensive tourism policy highlights a glaring gap between words and actions. Tourism in Kishtwar cannot thrive without a well-thought-out policy that ensures sustainable development, protects the environment, and promotes local culture. Policies regarding infrastructure, safety, and facilities for tourists remain absent. The question arises: If the MLA is serious about promoting tourism, why has no tangible policy been introduced to date? Opening Kishtwar to tourists without a policy is not only unethical but also risky. The absence of regulation could lead to environmental degradation, cultural erosion, and exploitation of local resources. This lack of action demonstrates a lack of commitment to the promises made.
Another pressing issue is the employment of local residents in Kishtwar’s power projects. The region boasts significant hydroelectric potential, with several ongoing and upcoming projects. However, there is widespread dissatisfaction among the locals due to their exclusion from these projects as employees. It is the MLA’s responsibility to ensure that the policies of employment in these projects prioritize local talent. Transparency and accountability are crucial. The people of Kishtwar have a right to know what measures are being taken to include them in these projects and how their interests are being safeguarded.
Despite the promises of prosperity, the basic needs of the people in Kishtwar remain unmet. The town is still grappling with a lack of clean drinking water, inconsistent electricity supply, and improper waste management. These are the fundamental issues that affect the day-to-day lives of the residents, yet they seem to be consistently ignored. It is unfortunate that while the MLA continues to speak about progress and development, these basic concerns are left unaddressed. Clean water, reliable electricity, and efficient waste management are essential for the health and well-being of the people. The fact that these issues remain unresolved despite being at the forefront of public concern reveals a disturbing disregard for the real and immediate needs of the community.
Effective leadership is about bridging the gap between promises and action. While Shagun Parihar’s rhetoric focuses on prosperity, the lack of visible progress in tourism, local employment, and basic infrastructure raises serious questions about her accountability. Public representatives have an ethical obligation to prioritize the needs and concerns of their constituents, ensuring that policies translate into meaningful actions. The people of Kishtwar deserve more than just promises. They deserve a leader who not only envisions prosperity but also works relentlessly to achieve it. Tourism development, local employment, and the resolution of basic infrastructure issues are not just aspirations but necessities for the region’s growth and well-being.
Kishtwar stands at a crossroads, with immense potential waiting to be tapped. The current MLA, Shagun Parihar, must shift her focus from rhetoric to action. The region’s tourism sector needs a clear policy framework, and employment opportunities in power projects must prioritize locals. At the same time, the MLA must address the pressing issues of clean water, electricity, and waste management that continue to affect the everyday lives of the people. It is time for the leadership to deliver on its promises and steer the region toward genuine prosperity. The people of Kishtwar are not asking for favors but for their rightful opportunities and essential services. Until these realistic issues are addressed, it is clear that the leadership remains disconnected from the needs of its constituents.
