Opinion | Youth in politics: shaping Kashmir’s future

As the morning mist lifts over Kashmir’s valleys, a quiet but substantial transformation occurs. Not only is the terrain changing, but so are the voices that inhabit it. The young of Kashmir, who were previously considered as bystanders in the region’s political journey, are increasingly adopting active roles. They are debating, organizing at the grassroots level, running in local elections, and, most importantly, preparing to determine the future on their own terms.

For many years, political discussions in Kashmir were influenced largely by legacy leaders and long-standing narratives. However, the new generation, more educated, connected, and driven, is reimagining politics to be more inclusive and focused on development. They are moving past historical baggage, aiming instead at education, employment, infrastructure, and civic engagement.

Traditionally, young people in Kashmir were encouraged to prioritize studies and careers, avoiding politics, which seemed unreachable or reserved for a select few. That view is starting to change. A gradual but steady transformation is underway, with young men and women becoming politically conscious and involved. Consider 27-year-old Aqib Shah of Budgam, a law graduate and community activist who recently contested in the local municipal elections. He didn’t win, but winning was not his sole ambition. “The idea is to be present, to represent local voices, and to show that someone from our background can step into these spaces,” he shares. “People are starting to see that politics is not just for the elite; it’s for anyone who wants to work for their community.”

This sense of ownership is growing. Across towns and campuses, youth-led groups are focusing on issues that affect their lives directly, clean drinking water, public transport,skill development, and internet access. They may not all operate under political party banners, but their actions are civic-minded and socially responsible.

When representation reflects the population it serves, governance becomes more relevant. . In Kashmir, the median age is under 30, while elected officials are typically substantially older. This divide causes a schism in vision and approach. Young people want their experiences to inform policy conversations.

During the District Development Council (DDC) elections, several youthful leaders emerged, emphasizing actual, local change rather than lofty promises. One of them was 30-year-old Juveria Nazir of Anantnag, who became one of the youngest female representatives. Her strategy prioritized girls’ education, vocational training, and improved connection in remote communities.

“We don’t need to wait for some ideal future to start taking part in decision-making,” says Juveria. “The issues we talk about—like education, jobs, and health care—are issues we live with every day. We bring that urgency and understanding into politics.”

While opportunities for youth leadership are rising, challenges remain. Many young hopefuls face mistrust from older generations or must traverse a political atmosphere that is not always welcoming to new ideas. More mentorship, platforms, and civic education are required to assist new leaders develop skills and credibility.

The good element is that change is beginning to emerge from within communities. Families are supporting their daughters in politics. Colleges are hosting mock parliaments and discussions. Instead of simply expressing oneself, social media has evolved into a medium for involvement. A gradual cultural transformation is taking place, with leadership being considered as a responsibility rather than a legacy.

Kashmir’s young generation has seen fast advances in technology, education, and information access. They are engaged in a global dialogue while being grounded in local circumstances. They seek to create bridges not only between regions, but also between generations, aspiration and action.

This isn’t about forgetting the past; it’s about refusing to be bound by it. The youth are choosing constructive engagement, long-term growth, and democratic involvement as their tools. They are not waiting for change; rather, they are taking the initiative to bring it about.

For Kashmir to truly thrive, its youth must be viewed as stakeholders in governance, rather than just future voters. Encouraging political engagement, particularly at the grassroots level, will guarantee that decisions are made for and by young people.

This is the generation capable of transforming politics from a closed door into an open dialog involving every voice, community, and desire.

WRITER CAN BE REACHED AT MUHAMMADMUSLIMBHAT@GMAIL.COM