STATE TIMES NEWS
SRINAGAR: Chairman, Democratic Progressive Azad Party (DPAP), Ghulam Nabi Azad on Tuesday asserted that his party remains resolute against the divisive tactics employed by regional parties and condemned their attempts to fragment communities based on caste and religion, whether it be Gujjars, Paharis, or Kashmiris. Interacting with people, he underscored his party’s commitment to prioritizing development over division and emphasized the need to hold these parties accountable for their exploitation of the populace.
Azad said: “Both NC and PDP have merely exploited the people for years without contributing to their welfare. While the Mughals created gardens in Kashmir many years ago, I established the breathtaking Tulip Garden, drawing lakhs of visitors. Despite Kashmir being a Muslim-dominated region, there was no Hajj House until I initiated its construction. Over the years, I’ve facilitated the establishment of more districts, medical colleges, schools, stadiums, roads, and tehsils. I challenge them to showcase their developmental achievements, as they have only indulged in empty slogans, which they now conveniently forget. My sole agenda is development; I have never exploited people on the basis of religion or caste. Throughout my over 45 years in politics, no one can accuse me of corruption. My track record is transparent; I do not possess extravagant mansions.”
Azad affirmed his departure from Delhi, driven solely by his dedication to serving the people. Without aspirations for personal gain, he pledged to prioritise the upliftment of the underprivileged.
Addressing critical issues such as youth involvement in militancy and drug abuse, Azad advocated for the creation of employment opportunities and the enhancement of infrastructure.
Recognising the youth as the cornerstone of the nation’s future, he reiterated his commitment to fostering new leadership, exemplified by his support for young Lok Sabha candidates like Amir Bhatt from Srinagar and Adv Saleem Parray from Anantnag.
Azad unveiled the deceptive tactics employed by parties like NC and PDP, saying these parties bank on false promises and slogans to exploit the people.
He urged the public to reject these manipulative strategies and instead back parties committed to genuine development and progress.
Emphasising the need to steer clear of misleading rhetoric, Azad underscored the importance of informed voting.
Reflecting on the voting turnout in the Srinagar seat, he expressed disappointment at the lower-than-anticipated numbers, citing widespread disillusionment with the current government.
Azad underscored the pivotal role of increased voter participation in forthcoming phases, asserting that real change hinges on active engagement in the electoral process. Among others present on the occasion were, Vice Chairman G.M Saroori, Provincial President Mohd Amin Bhat, Chief Spokesperson Salman Nizami, Lok Sabha Candidate Adv Saleem Parray, DDC Bilal Deva and others.