JAMMU: Among the victorious BJP candidates in Jammu and Kashmir is Shagun Parihar, a 29-year-old pursuing a PhD in Electronics. She is one of three women to win seats in the Assembly elections and the only female BJP candidate. Her victory in Kishtwar was particularly significant, as she defeated seasoned National Conference politician and former minister Sajad Ahmed Kitchloo by a narrow margin of 521 votes.
The National Conference-Congress coalition triumphed in the Jammu and Kashmir elections on Tuesday, securing 49 of the 90 seats, surpassing expectations set by exit polls. The BJP also made notable gains, capturing 29 seats, an increase of four from its 2014 tally. In contrast, the Congress managed to win only six seats.
Expressing gratitude, Ms Parihar said, “I am deeply grateful to the people of Kishtwar for placing their trust in me and the BJP. Their faith is humbling.” She emphasized that her victory represents the will of the nationalist people of Jammu and Kashmir, adding, “This is their blessing.”
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Ms Parihar highlighted that her priority will be ensuring the security and safety of Kishtwar, which has faced historical security challenges. “My focus will be on fostering peace, development, and protection in the region,” she declared.
Reflecting on her journey, Ms Parihar, who lost her father and uncle in a terror attack five years ago, said her win honours not only her family’s sacrifices but also those of all families who have lost loved ones to terrorism. “This victory is a tribute to everyone who has given their lives to protect our nation,” she stated. Both Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah campaigned extensively for her.