Attari (SC): Banking on resumption of trade
Neeraj Bagga
Residents of this border seat are pinning their hopes on resumption of bilateral trade with Pakistan through the Integrated Check Post for economic growth of the area. It will generate employment opportunities and in turn curb drug addiction, which is rampant in the region, they feel.
Past trend
The seat used to be the stronghold of the Left due to its proximity to Chheharta, an erstwhile textile hub. SAD’s Tara Singh ended the Left control in 1985. Akali leader Gulzar Singh Ranike won the previous editions of the Assembly elections in 1997, 2002, 2007 and 2012.
Electorate strength
Total voters – 1,83,204
Male – 98,592
Female – 84,607
Third gender – 5
Locals’ key demands
- Resumption of India-Pak trade
- Quality health services
- Adequate teachers at schools
- Bus service for tourist sites
Further, a shuttle service between historic sites such as Pull Kankari and Samadh of General Sham Singh Attariwala to the city will boost tourism. The local mini primary health centre (PHC) was proposed to be elevated to a full-fledged PHC but it has only remained on paper. With no regular doctor at the centre, residents demand adequate staff at the facility.
Since 1985, Attari has largely been a Panthic constituency, with 1992 and 2017 elections as exceptions. With the SAD tying up with the BSP and the Congress banking on Dalit CM Charanjit Singh Channi, a keen contest is on the cards in the reserved seat this time.
