||Black and White Digital News||

||Vantage Point by Parvinder Singh ||

||October 22, 2024||

JAMMU : In a spectacle that seemed more like a cultural event than an official legislative function, BJP MLAs of the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly took their oaths wearing the Dogra turban, a symbol of honor and pride for the people of Jammu. Among the 29 BJP MLAs who stood on the floor, Sunil Sharma, Shagun Parihar, and RS Pathania added a layer of tradition by taking their oath in Sanskrit. It was a vivid display of heritage, but as the ceremony wrapped up, the question on everyone’s mind remained: Is this enough?

The Significance of the Dogra Turban:

The Dogra turban, historically worn by leaders such as Maharaja Hari Singh and prominent figures of the Dogra dynasty, represents valor, dignity, and the cultural legacy of the region. It is not just an accessory, but a crown of respect. Leaders of yore proudly wore this turban every day as a testament to their love for their land and their people. Sadly, the sight of modern-day politicians wearing it has become all too rare, except for special occasions like oath ceremonies.

One could argue that today’s leaders seem to have turned this once proud symbol into a gimmick. The turban makes a fleeting appearance during public spectacles, only to be stored away until the next event. Wouldn’t it be more meaningful if these leaders wore the Dogra turban daily, carrying the mantle of their ancestors with genuine pride, instead of treating it as a mere tool for cultural appeasement?

A Gimmick to Show Kashmir Leaders Their Presence?

It is hard not to see through the political posturing here. In an attempt to assert their dominance and remind Kashmir’s political class of their roots, the BJP MLAs have donned the Dogra turban for the oath-taking ceremony. But let’s face it—beyond this grand display, there seems to be little substance in their actions for Jammu’s development. The turban has become more of a fashion statement, worn to create a divide rather than build unity. Shouldn’t such a symbol of heritage represent integrity and responsibility instead of being used to outshine political opponents?

The Real Issues Ignored:

Amid the spectacle of turbans and Sanskrit vows, one could not help but notice the glaring absence of any discussion on the pressing issues facing Jammu. Unemployment continues to plague the region, with thousands of daily wagers still waiting for the regularization of their jobs. Vacant government posts remain unfilled, and the lack of a concrete employment generation plan has dampened the spirits of countless youth in the region.

While flyovers may be popping up across the city, what good are they if basic infrastructure, electricity, tourism, and job opportunities remain neglected? What has been done for the tourism sector, a cornerstone of Jammu’s economy? Where are the new projects that could revitalize the region and provide livelihoods for thousands?

Cultural Event or Legislative Responsibility?

The BJP MLAs, through their grand gesture, turned the oath ceremony into a cultural showcase. However, is this what the people of Jammu voted for? The citizens of Jammu placed their faith in these 29 MLAs with the hope that they would champion their causes, not just perform on the political stage. Sadly, their silence on key issues was deafening.

A Vote of Faith: Will They Deliver?

Jammu’s people have voted for the BJP with immense trust and confidence. But will these MLAs live up to their promises? Will they fight for the rights of the unemployed? Will they push for the regularization of daily wagers? Will they focus on filling the vacant posts that remain a glaring void in the system? Only time will tell.

The Dogra turban, a symbol of strength, pride, and heritage, deserves better than to be a political tool. It should be worn with daily pride, not as a prop for special events. The people of Jammu expect more than just appearances—they expect action, development, and real change.

For now, the oaths have been taken. The turbans have been tied and untied. But the real work, the real test of leadership, begins now. Let’s hope that these MLAs, beyond their cultural displays, have the courage to truly stand for Jammu.

Devinder Manyal