His commitment worked a lot!
RC Sharma Chanakya
Jammu, Oct 10: In the recent assembly elections in Jammu & Kashmir following the abrogation of Article 370, Kishtwar has emerged as a remarkable success story, recording the highest polling percentage among the 20 districts in the region. This achievement is particularly noteworthy given Kishtwar’s remote and challenging terrain, which often complicates access to polling stations. The exceptional commitment and dedication of District Election Officer Mr. RK Shavan, who also serves as the Deputy Commissioner, along with his tireless team, played a pivotal role in this accomplishment.
With an impressive polling rate of 80.20%, Kishtwar’s success is a testament to the relentless efforts of Mr. Shavan and his team. Many voters had to traverse several kilometers on foot through difficult paths to reach polling booths, yet their determination to participate in the democratic process prevailed. The collaboration between the District Election Office and the SSP ensured that logistics were managed efficiently, turning what could have been a challenging situation into a resounding success.
The overall polling percentage in Jammu & Kashmir stood at 63.45%, with the Jammu region at 72.59%. Kishtwar’s remarkable turnout not only surpassed these figures but significantly contributed to raising the overall polling percentage across the Union Territory. The assembly constituencies within Kishtwar also performed admirably: Inderwal at 82.16%, Kishtwar at 78.24%, and Padder-Nagseni at 80.67%. These results highlight the dedication of the DEO and his team, who worked under challenging conditions to encourage voter participation.
It is important to note that several critical polling booths in Kishtwar faced adverse situations, yet managed to record encouraging polling rates. The district’s rugged mountainous terrain, akin to regions like Himachal and Ladakh, adds to the complexity of voter outreach. However, under Mr. Shavan’s leadership, the team succeeded in raising awareness about the importance of exercising voting rights, transforming voters into ambassadors of democracy.
Kishtwar, which encompasses four sub-divisions, 11 tehsils, and 297 villages over an area of 7,737 square kilometers, faces unique challenges due to its geographical characteristics. The sub-divisions include Kishtwar, Chhatroo, Marwah, and Atholi, whereas whereas eleven tehsils are as Kishtwar; Drabshalla; Bunjwah; Nagseni; Chhatroo; Mughal Maidan; Warwan; Dachhan; Marwah; Paddar; and Machail. Paddar tehsil being the most remote, dominated by the majestic Sickle Moon Peak.
Furthermore, Kishtwar is home to the Kishtwar High Altitude National Park, a stunning natural habitat that spans 2,190.50 square kilometers and hosts diverse species of flora and fauna. This region’s rich biodiversity and historical significance-first mentioned in the ancient text Rajatarangini as Kashthavata-add to Kishtwar’s unique charm and appeal.
Mr. RK Shavan and his team’s extraordinary efforts in ensuring a smooth electoral process amidst the region’s challenges stand as a beacon of hope for participatory democracy in Jammu & Kashmir. Their dedication not only facilitated a remarkable voter turnout but also reinforced the belief that even in the toughest circumstances, commitment to public service can lead to inspiring achievements.
