Public Awareness and the Tug of Power
By: Khawaja Kabir Ahmed
The current political atmosphere in Pakistan-administered Jammu and Kashmir is gripped by turmoil and uncertainty. The political system, revolving around the seat of power, once again appears completely detached from the real problems of the people. On one side, Prime Minister Anwarul Haq’s government faces a no-confidence motion; on the other side, the Pakistan Peoples Party is preparing to take over. Yet, missing from this entire power struggle is the very element that should be the true source of strength — the people.
In recent times, the level of public awakening witnessed has gone far beyond the capacity of any traditional political party. The movement led by the Joint Awami Action Committee has proved that the people are no longer mere spectators. They have raised their voices for their rights, justice, and empowered governance — and this voice has echoed from small villages to major cities.
It is also worth noting that the people have lost faith in the slogans and promises of these power-hungry political parties. Past governments have repeatedly sacrificed public interest at the altar of political gain. As a result, people have become completely disillusioned with these parties. This is why today, the Joint Awami Action Committee enjoys far greater public support than all the traditional political forces combined.
Now the public is asking: if the current political structure does not serve their interests, what is the alternative? The truth is that a better future can only be achieved when politics revolves around public service, not power. Any force that works in line with the people’s real concerns — inflation, unemployment, developmental stagnation, and unjust distribution of resources — will prove to be the true representative of the masses.
The time has come for the Kashmiri people to decide, with collective wisdom, whether they wish to remain fuel for the power games of a privileged few, or to become the true standard-bearers of their right to self-governance, giving rise to a new political culture.
The tug of power is temporary — but once public awareness awakens, it has the power to change history. Today, the people have the opportunity to recognize their own strength, because real power should always rest in the hands of the people, not with politicians hungry for authority.
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