Shagun Parihar, who won the 2024 J&K assembly elections at the age of 29, created history. In the 2024 J&K elections, she is one of just three women to win, but her victory was not easy to come by. From Kishtwar, an area long plagued by militancy, she emerged victorious.
Speaking to media after the verdict, she said: “We have lost a large number of our soldiers. I have lost my father, and some have lost their brothers and sons. My first effort will be to ensure that every child here has the shadow of a father over his head, that there is peace and prosperity in the area. My efforts will be to bring happiness to every home.”
According to a report in The Times of India, Shagun’s candidacy is driven by personal loss. Hizbul Mujahideen terrorists assassinated her father, BJP functionary Ajit Parihar, and her uncle Anil Parihar near their home ahead of the panchayat elections on November 1, 2018.
Initially focused on her academic career—currently pursuing a PhD—Shagun Parihar had no plans to enter politics. However, the weight of her family’s legacy and a sense of responsibility to her community compelled her to step into the political arena.
She defeated two political heavyweights: Sajjad Ahmed Kichloo, a former minister and NC stalwart, and Firdous Ahmed Tak of PDP. In a tightly contested race, she secured 29,053 votes, edging out Kichloo by a mere 521 votes.
BJP’s decision to field Shagun was a strategic move to expand its reach in Kishtwar, a district with a significant Muslim population and a smaller Hindu community. Historically a National Conference stronghold—NC had won the seat five times—BJP first captured it in 2014 with Sunil Sharma.
During the campaign, PM Modi acknowledged the gravity of Shagun’s personal history. Referring to her slain father and uncle, he said: “She is not just our candidate; she is the living example of BJP’s resolve to finish off terrorism.”
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Source: Money Control
