by Faiqa Masoodi
SRINAGAR: In the heart of Srinagar, amidst the refurbished Lal Chowk, a vibrant spectacle unfolded on Wednesday, indicating a shift in Kashmir’s political narrative.
The Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) organised a roadshow, announcing the candidacy of Waheed Para for the Srinagar Lok Sabha seat. The convoy of vehicles made its way through the streets, adorned with party flags and slogans.
For nearly five years, Lal Chowk had remained relatively subdued, a stark contrast to its former bustling self. Celebrations on Republic and Independence Days apart, there were many sports events, and a few gatherings by the ruling BJP and its affiliates.
However, in 2024, almost five years later, the historic street saw a bit of role reversal. The onlookers, however, were unable to make a decision – to cheer or not.
The rejuvenation of Lal Chowk had been a gradual process, catalysed by the facelift of the iconic Clock Tower, affectionately known as Ganta Ghar. Under the Srinagar Smart City initiative in 2023, the area transformed, drawing tourists and locals alike.
A section of the tourists ensures they mark their presence in Lal Chowk and take a selfie home with the iconic tower. The towering presence of a life-sized cut-out of Prime Minister Narendra Modi attracted curious onlookers and selfie enthusiasts. During winters, one day the cut-out wore the Kashmiri Pheran, the long loose gown seen as part of Kashmir identity.
Prime Minister personally spoke about Srinagar Lal Chowk many times. “Those (referring to Rahul Gandhi’s Bharat Jodo Yatra) who came back from J-K recently must have seen how easily you can go in JK. I too had gone on a yatra to Jammu and Kashmir with the resolve to unfurl the Tricolour at Lal Chowk,” Modi said in Lok Sabha on February 8, 2023. “Terrorists had put up posters and said, dekhte hain, kisne maa ka doodh piya hai jo Lal Chowk aake Tiranga phehra paaye. That day on January 24, at a public rally, I had said, ‘terrorists pay heed. On January 26, sharp at 11 am, I will reach Lal Chowk without security and a bulletproof jacket. Faisla Lal Chowk pe hoga kisne apni maa ka doodh piya hai. Then I unfurled the Tricolour at Lal Chowk.”
Even recently he suggested the opposition to go to Srinagar’s Lal Chowk and feel the change.
Yet, amidst the scenic backdrop and the buzz of tourism, Kashmir’s political landscape had remained stagnant, frozen in the aftermath of Article 370’s revocation. It was against this backdrop that Waheed Para’s election campaign rally emerged as a symbol of change, cutting through the monotony.
As Para assumed centre stage in Lal Chowk, his rally marked a gradual shift. The question lingered in the air: would other political contenders follow suit, converging on Lal Chowk to vie for attention and support?
