Election officials, along with representatives from political parties, are set to arrive at counting centers early in the morning. The proceedings will begin promptly at 5 AM, with officials receiving their final briefings by 6 AM. By 8 AM, vote counting for the Haryana and Jammu & Kashmir Assembly elections will commence, marking a crucial moment for both regions. The anticipation is palpable, with citizens waiting eagerly to see the results that will shape the political landscape. However, in the backdrop of this electoral exercise, a deeper conversation is brewing—a conversation about statehood, power, and the rights of the people of Jammu & Kashmir. While the elections have concluded, the question remains: will this government, which many claim will hold no more authority than a municipality, be able to address the real issues facing the region? For too long, political parties have been embroiled in debates that lead nowhere. The electorate is calling for action, for concrete steps that will restore their confidence in the system and reclaim their rights. It’s no longer about how many seats a party wins or which leader holds power; the focus has shifted to something far more critical—the restoration of Jammu & Kashmir’s statehood. Farooq Abdullah, a senior leader in Jammu & Kashmir’s political landscape, has also expressed hope for a united front to build a strong government that truly delivers on the people’s aspirations. He emphasises the need for cooperation and unity among all political factions to bring about faster and more effective change. As Abdullah said, “Together, we can achieve more, faster, and bring the change everyone desires. Let’s welcome this unity and work hand in hand for a better future.” This is not a demand born out of mere political strategy; it is the heartfelt desire of every voter who yearns for dignity, autonomy, and self-governance. It is a plea that transcends party lines, from PDP to AIP and beyond. There is a growing recognition among the people and their representatives that unity is key. Only by working together can they hope to achieve the common goal of statehood, a status that was taken away but still burns brightly in the hearts of the people. Now is the time for political parties to rise above petty differences and rhetoric. They must put aside narrow interests and take a unified stand. The people of Jammu & Kashmir demand practical solutions, not endless debates. The statehood demand must be taken up collectively by all political parties, represented through their elected officials, and presented resolutely to the Union Government. The message to the Union Government should be clear: either grant us statehood or risk losing the faith of the people. Until then, the people and their representatives will remain steadfast, refusing to be silenced or sidelined. This is not a moment to be ignored or delayed, for the restoration of statehood is about restoring hope, self-confidence, and the rightful place of Jammu & Kashmir within the democratic fabric of India. The future of Jammu & Kashmir depends on the ability of its political representatives to push for what is just and fair. This is not about power for power’s sake; it is about returning to the people what was theirs. Let us stand united and demand that the Union Government recognises the voice of Jammu & Kashmir and acts upon it. It is only then that true progress can be made, and the region can move forward with restored rights, dignity, and self-determination.