Srinagar, July 17 -- I'm 25 years old, a graduate from a well-known university. Like many others in Jammu and Kashmir, I didn't step into the workforce right after finishing college. Instead, I enrolled in a Master's program through IGNOU, because it felt like the only way to stay busy while preparing for government exams that always seem just out of reach.

We, the youth of this region, held onto a fragile hope, especially after 2019, when Article 370 was abrogated and our state transitioned into a Union Territory under Governor's rule.

We were told of a new dawn of development, opportunities, and most importantly, transparent and timely recruitments. We envisioned a future where merit would prevail, our hard work would be rewarded, and...