Shagun Parihar Conquers Kishtwar
In a notable win for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Jammu and Kashmir, Shagun Parihar, the party’s only female candidate, emerged victorious from the Kishtwar constituency. The 29-year-old, who is currently pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Electronics, is one of the three women who won in the region’s 2024 assembly elections.
Despite predictions that favored the National Conference-Congress alliance, which won 49 of the union territory’s 90 seats, the BJP exceeded expectations, securing 29 seats, four more than in the previous 2014 elections. The Congress, however, only managed to win six seats.
Ms. Parihar’s victory is particularly significant, as she defeated Sajad Ahmed Kitchloo, a senior leader from the National Conference and former minister, by a narrow margin of 521 votes. Her win marks a pivotal moment for the BJP, as Kitchloo had long been a dominant figure in the region.
Shagun Parihar Wins Kishtwar
Reflecting on her win, Ms. Parihar expressed her gratitude to the people of Kishtwar. “I bow before the people of Kishtwar for their faith in me and my party. Their support is deeply appreciated. I am humbled by their endorsement,” she said.
She also emphasized that her victory is symbolic of the trust the people of Jammu and Kashmir have placed in the BJP. “This win is not just mine but belongs to the nationalist people of the region. It is their blessing,” she added.
Ms. Parihar, who tragically lost her father and uncle in a terror attack five years ago, highlighted her commitment to ensuring safety and security in Kishtwar, a region historically affected by terrorism. “My focus will be on peace, progress, and prosperity. The safety of our people remains my top priority,” she assured.
In an emotional note, she dedicated her win to all families who have sacrificed for the nation. “This victory honors all those who gave their lives to fight terrorism and protect our country,” she said.
Among the other female winners in the region were Sakeena Masood from the DH Pura assembly segment and Shamima Firdous, who won in the Habbakadal constituency of Srinagar.
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FAQs
Is Shagun Parihar the only women candidate who stands for BJP in J&K?
Yes
