In scenes not witnessed on a cricket ground in Jammu and Kashmir since last many decades, thousands of fans converged at the Azad Cricket Ground in Pulwama's Khrew last week for the final of the Khrew Premier League (KPL) tournament.
The small hamlet in Pampore town of South Kashmir's Pulwama district had seen some intense competition amongst the teams from the region in what was the second edition of the league.
The enthusiasm shown by the local youth also indicates how the former hub of terrorism has now become a pivot of sporting activity.
People who were till recently chanting slogans of Azaadi (freedom) and pelting stones at security forces in support of local boy and slain Hizbul Mujahideen terrorist Burhan Wani are now rooting for region's emerging cricketing heroes.
It also highlights the positive change and comprehensive development that has been brought in the union territory after the abrogation of Article 370.
With the UT fully integrated into the mainstream of the nation, all the rights enshrined in the Constitution of India and benefits of all the central laws are now also being enjoyed by the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
Videos and photographs of thousands of people rushing on the field after the final between Arbi Jewellers and Shopian Rockers and thoroughly enjoying the event have now gone viral on social media.
According to the organisers, people from all corners of the Valley had travelled to Khrew to witness the game. This, they believed, also signals the changing picture in Kashmir and appreciation for quality living among the common people.
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