he annual elections of the District Bar Association Bandipora were held in a peaceful, fair and transparent manner on Tuesday, witnessing an impressive voter turnout of 98.3 percent, with two women advocates emerging victorious in a historic development for the legal fraternity.
The election process was conducted under the supervision of Chief Election Commissioner Advocate Mudasir Bhat and Election Commissioner Advocate Raja Firdous.
Out of 59 eligible voters, 58 exercised their franchise, reflecting overwhelming participation by members of the Bar Association.
For the post of President, Advocate Masood Ahmad Bhat defeated Advocate Sofi Feroz by securing 29 votes. Advocate Sameer Ahmad Khan was elected unopposed as General Secretary, while Advocate Asif Iqbal Shah was elected unopposed as Vice President.
For the post of Joint Secretary, Advocate Mudasir Khanday defeated Advocate Tariq Ahmad Bhat by polling 36 votes, while Advocate Majid Mushtaq was elected Treasurer after securing 35 votes against Advocate Nissar Shaban.
The elections also marked a significant milestone for women in the legal profession, as two women advocates contested and both emerged victorious in their respective categories.
Advocate Roohie Sayed was elected unopposed as Lady Executive Member (5 Years), reflecting the confidence and trust reposed in her by the members of the Bar.In another historic result, Advocate Zeenat Yasir Parrey was elected Lady Executive Member (3 Years) after defeating Advocate Gulshan Ara by 33 votes to 24. With this victory, Advocate Zeenat became only the second woman advocate to contest an election in the history of the District Bar Association Bandipora and secure a convincing mandate, a development widely hailed as a milestone for women’s representation in the legal fraternity.
Members of the legal community described the election of both women advocates as a positive and progressive step, saying it reflects the growing confidence in women’s leadership and professional capabilities. The twin victories are being viewed as an inspiration for aspiring women lawyers and a testament to the Bar’s commitment to democratic participation and inclusiveness.
The Election Commission declared the polling process smooth, transparent and impartial, and congratulated all the successful candidates. It also appreciated the members of the District Bar Association Bandipora for their enthusiastic participation, cooperation and disciplined conduct, which ensured the successful completion of the electoral process
