In a historic moment, the Valmiki community of Jammu and Kashmir has exercised their right to vote for the first time in the assembly elections, marking a significant milestone in their long struggle for recognition and citizenship. For decades, this community, originally brought to Jammu and Kashmir from Punjab's Gurdaspur district in 1957 for sanitation work, was denied basic rights, including the right to vote, despite residing in the region for many years. The long-awaited opportunity to participate in the electoral process has been described as a festival by community members, signifying a new chapter in their lives.

The atmosphere was charged with excitement and satisfaction as community members cast their votes. Gharu Bhati, a passionate activist who has dedicated over 15 years to advocating for the Valmiki community's rights, expressed his elation, stating, "I am a first-time voter at the age of 45. In my lifetime, we are thrilled and filled with enthusiasm to participate in J-K's assembly elections for the first time. It is like a big festival for us." Bhati highlighted the generational impact of this moment, noting that previous generations were denied the right to vote, but now justice has prevailed with the abrogation of Article 370, which granted citizenship rights to the community.

This is a day of celebration not only for the Valmiki community but also for others who were previously deprived of their rights, including West Pakistan refugees and the Gurkha communities. Bhati remarked, "This is a festival for the entire Valmiki community. We have voters as old as 80 and as young as 18. Two generations before us were denied this right, but justice prevailed when Article 370 was abrogated." He emphasized that the long struggle for recognition and rights has finally borne fruit.

Before the abrogation of Article 370, members of the Valmiki community and similar groups faced numerous challenges, including lack of access to education, job opportunities, and land ownership. The absence of a state-subject certificate meant they were marginalized and excluded from basic civil rights. Now, with the revocation of this article, they can participate in elections, buy land, and seek employment opportunities within the region, paving the way for a more equitable future.

Reflecting on the changes, Bhati stated, "Today, we are voting. Tomorrow, we will represent our people. This marks the beginning of a new era in our lives. We will bring our issues to the assembly." He envisions a future where members of the Valmiki community, who once saw scavenging as their only fate, can aspire to become MLAs or even ministers. This transformation is monumental and represents the magnitude of change now possible for the community.

The Valmiki community, along with West Pakistan refugees and Gurkhas, comprises approximately 1.5 lakh people residing in various parts of Jammu, Samba, and Kathua districts, particularly in border areas. Bhati underscored that after 75 years, these communities have finally gained their constitutional rights, overcoming the historical injustices they faced.

As we celebrate this momentous occasion, it's important to recognize the significance of active citizenship and participation in the democratic process. The Valmiki community's engagement in the elections reflects a broader movement towards inclusivity and justice within Jammu and Kashmir.

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