Down South, the contest in Shopian is getting very interesting. Apparently, it is not between JKNC and JKPDP but the latter with an NC rebel, Syed Batool Andrabi reports
The down south Shopian Assembly constituency holds significant political weight in this election. As one of only two assembly constituencies in the district, alongside Zainapora, Shopian is part of the Srinagar parliamentary constituency.
Renowned for its rich history and thriving horticulture, Shopian has been a focal point in the region’s electoral politics. The constituency encompasses Keller, Keegam, and parts of Shopian tehsil, excluding Dangerpora, Trenz, Kiloora, Malikgund, Nadigam, Ganowpora, Arsh, Dangam, Pratabpora, Bemnipora, Kaprin, and Kunjiullar.
The Panchayat’s falling in this constituency include PCs 1-Saidapora, 2-Meemandar, 3-Arhama, 4-Pinjoora, 5-Ganowpora Arish, 6-Bemnipora, 7-Harapora, 10-Trenz, 18-Vehilchal-Awatoo, 22-Sedew, 23-Ram Nagri, 33-Diyaroo, 34-Barthipora, 35-Daramdoora, 36-Zoora-Baderhama, 37-Narapora, 38-Keegam, 40-Keller Mastpora, 41-Pahlipora, 42-Sindhu-Shrimal, 43-Shopian, 44-Devipora (forest block) in Tehsil Shopian.
Shopian (Shupiyan) boasts a rich historical heritage dating back to the Mughal era. Strategically situated on the medieval Mughal Road, a vital artery that once connected Lahore to Srinagar and now links Jammu to Srinagar via the Poonch-Rajouri belt, the town has long served as a crucial transit point in the region.
The origin of the name Shopian is attributed to the distortion of the word Shah-Payan, meaning “royal stay,” a testament to its historical significance. Alternatively, locals refer to it as Shin-Van, or “snow forest,” a nod to its breathtaking natural beauty and storied past.
In March 2007, Shopian was elevated to district status, formally separating it from Pulwama district. The district’s rugged terrain, nestled within the Pir Panjal Range, is characterised by extremely harsh winters, with the region’s hilly landscape adding to its unique charm.
Demography
Shopian district boasts a population of 266,215, according to the 2011 census, ranking it 577th among India’s 640 districts. Till recently, it is one of the smallest districts in India. The population density stands at 852 inhabitants per square kilometre, indicating a substantial growth rate of 25.85 per cent between 2001 and 2011. The constituency’s electorate comprises 50,748 males, 49,793 females, and 5 transgender individuals.
The population of this assembly constituency is predominantly Muslim, accounting for 98.52 per cent, while Hindus constitute 1.17 per cent, and other religious groups make up the remaining 0.31 per cent. In terms of language, Kashmiri is the predominant tongue, spoken by 87.99 per cent of the population as their first language, followed by Gojri (8.80 per cent) and Pahari (1.78 per cent).
Regarding education, the overall literacy rate in Shopian district stands at 62.49 per cent, with notable gender disparities. Male literacy is significantly higher, at approximately 86.74 per cent, while female literacy stands at around 67.85 per cent. The urban population accounts for about 6.15 per cent of the total, with a literacy rate of 78.65 per cent, compared to the rural literacy rate of 59.54 per cent.
The constituency is home to 133535 people including 43 Schedules Castes and 21765 Scheduled tribes, which is more than 16 percent of the overall population.
Electoral History
The political landscape of Shopian has evolved over the years, influenced by various parties. In the 2008 assembly elections, Abdul RazaqWagay of the Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Democratic Party (JKPDP) secured the seat with 8,006 votes, garnering 21.23 per cent of the total votes cast. He was closely followed by Mohammad Shafi of the Indian National Congress (INC), who received 5,208 votes (13.81 per cent), and Shabir Ahmad Kulley of the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (JKN), who garnered 4,929 votes (13.07 per cent).
Notably, the voter turnout in the 2008 elections was significant, with 37,740 voters participating out of 71,517 registered electors. The turnout percentage stood at 52.77 per cent, with male voters recording a higher participation rate of 61.97 per cent compared to female voters at 42.49 per cent.
In the subsequent 2014 elections, Mohammad Yousuf Bhat from JKPDP emerged victorious once again, this time securing 14,262 votes, accounting for 34.2 per cent of the total votes cast. Shabir Ahmad Kullay, contesting as an independent candidate, secured 11,896 votes (28.52 per cent). The voter turnout for this election was also substantial, reflecting the constituency’s active political engagement.
As the 2024 elections approach, a total of 11 candidates are in the fray. The candidates include Yawar Shafi Shafi (JKPDP), Javid Ahmad Qadri (BJP), Sheikh Mohammad Rafi (JKNC), Ovais Mushtaq (Apni Party), and many independents. The main contest is presumed to be between two major regional parties, the JKNC and JKPDP. The reality, however, is that the contest is between PDP’s Banday and JKNC’s rebel, Shabir Kullay.
What is interesting, as far as electoral politics goes, is that both parties have issues. Shabir Kullay, who was earlier with JKNC, resigned after Rafi got the mandate. Similarly, PDP’s DDC member Raja Waheed also put in his papers after not getting the mandate. While Kullay is contesting as an independent, Waheed is contesting as an AIP candidate.
Situational Impact
Like other segments, this assembly constituency took a huge brunt of the security situation prevailing in Kashmir for the last more than three decades. Yawar’s grandfather, Abdul Majid Banday was killed. Rafi’s father, Sheikh Mansoor was also assassinated.
Economic Significance
The economy of Shopian is predominantly agrarian, with apple cultivation serving as the cornerstone for most of the natives. The region has earned the moniker Apple Bowl of Jammu and Kashmir, as apple farming provides employment opportunities for approximately 60 per cent of the local population. The region’s favourable climate and fertile soil combine to produce a high yield of apples, which constitute a vital source of income for numerous households.
Shopian plays host to one of the best mandis in Kashmir which is No 2 after Sopore.
A District of Diverse Charm
Shopian’s reputation extends beyond its agricultural significance, as the district boasts an abundance of natural beauty and historical sites. Several areas within the district hold considerable tourism potential, including the Hirpora Wildlife Sanctuary, a veritable haven for wildlife enthusiasts. This sanctuary is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, making it a unique attraction.
Peer Ki Gali, situated on the historic Mughal Road, offers breathtaking views and has become a popular destination for trekkers. Nearby, Lake Nandansar attracts nature lovers and trekkers alike, its serene surroundings providing a tranquil escape.
The historic Jamia Masjid, built during the Mughal reign, bears a striking resemblance to the famous Jamia Masjid in Srinagar. It was reconstructed in 1940 and is believed to have been completed in 13 years with local donations and native masons and carpenters. Additionally, the Aasar-i-Sharief Dargah, located at Pinjura, draws thousands of devotees during religious occasions, underscoring its significance.
The Shopian Assembly constituency represents a rich tapestry of history, diverse demographics, and a vibrant political landscape. As the region prepares for the impending elections, the active participation of voters underscores the importance of democratic engagement in shaping the future of this historically significant area.
With its agricultural economy and potential for tourism development, Shopian stands at the crossroads of tradition and progress, poised to play a pivotal role in the broader narrative of Jammu and Kashmir. The upcoming elections will not only determine the political representation of the constituency but also exert a profound influence on its socio-economic trajectory in the years to come.
Read Profile of Other Assembly Constituencies
Kulgam, Devsar, Noorabad (DH Pora), Shopian, Zainpora (Wachi)
