NC leader pledges to restore Sopore’s status as ‘Chotta London’ if elected

Irshad Rasool Kar promises divisional status, trauma hospital; says people regret their choices in parl polls

Sopore: Irshad Rasool Kar, a senior leader of the National Conference and Sopore constituency head, on Thursday pledged to restore Sopore’s former status as “Chotta London” if elected in the upcoming assembly elections.Speaking to the media persons here, Kar said many people regret their choices in the recent parliamentary polls and are looking to make amends in the current election.Kar said he is committed to enhancing the economic and social infrastructure of Sopore, which he described as the highest taxpayer region that receives little in return.“If elected, I will prioritise the horticulture sector and the economy of the region. I will push for divisional status, a trauma hospital and the inclusion of Sopore on the tourism map,” he said. “I will seek backward status for a few deserving areas and pursue other necessary developments.”The NC leader said Sopore “deserves better” due to its huge economic contributions. “I promise to restore its status as a leading economic hub in the region,” he said. Kar assured the public that his leadership would not disappoint them.Addressing the election preparedness, Irshad said the National Conference is ready and actively campaigning.When asked about the impact of multiple candidates on the NC, he said that in a democracy, everyone has the right to participate. “The recent parliamentary polls saw various organisations and participants with different agendas, and now people are reconsidering their choices for the assembly elections,” he said.Kar also addressed concerns about voter turnout in Sopore, a region historically known for low participation in elections. He said engaging in the democratic process is the most effective way for people to be heard and to address their grievances. Other methods, he said, only lead to violence and do not resolve issues.He said the National Conference is currently leading in the Sopore constituency while the ultimate decision lies with the voters. “Everything will be clear in the polls,” Kar added—(KNO)