Karnah, June 01 (KNS) : The border region of Karnah, along the Line of Control (LoC) in north Kashmir’s Kupwara district, has witnessed not only political instability but also natural disasters, border tensions and lack of basic amenities over the decades. Yet, when it comes to major developmental projects, the name of former chief minister Ghulam Nabi Azad is recalled with special reverence, even though he was never an elected MLA from this constituency.

 

According to political observers and local elders, Karnah has seen various elected representatives since 1983 — from Abdul Ghani Lone and Sharifuddin Shariq to three-time MLA Kafil-ur-Rehman Khan, followed by Raja Manzoor Ahmad and, in 2024, Javed Ahmad Mirchal. While each made efforts to resolve public issues, residents say Azad’s brief tenure in power left a lasting impact.

 

During his government, the new building of the Sub-District Hospital Tangdhar was constructed, which remains the primary healthcare hub for the region. In education, Azad’s tenure granted Karnah a Degree College, reducing the need for local youth to travel outside the valley for higher studies. Locals said the college promoted educational awareness and gave new direction to hundreds of young people.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

 

Azad also played a role in the development of religious institutions, providing financial assistance of approximately two crore rupees for the Jamia Masjid Shah-e-Hamdan Tangdhar.

 

However, the aspect of Azad’s personality that people of Karnah remember most is his public commitment during the devastating earthquake of October 8, 2005. The quake caused severe damage to Karnah, collapsing hundreds of houses and destroying educational institutions. Azad visited the affected areas repeatedly and personally supervised relief operations. Area elders recall that he spent both Eid festivals in Karnah among the public.

 

Social activist Ab Rashid said that although many political leaders served Karnah, Azad’s contribution to infrastructure, healthcare, education and overall development remains unmatched. Another activist, Wahid Ahmad, said Azad’s strong connection with people and focus on remote border areas earned him a special place in the hearts of Karnah residents.

 

The current generation, residents said, may not be familiar with all past political eras, but the hospital building, the Degree College and other developmental projects still bear witness to steps taken for the region’s progress. (KNS)