STATE TIMES NEWS
SRINAGAR: Invoking the timeless words of poet Allama Iqbal, “tumhari dastan na hogi dastanon mein,, Chairman Democratic Progressive Azad Party (DPAP) on Monday urged the people of Jammu and Kashmir to rise above divisions and work collectively towards a brighter future.
Addressing a huge public meeting in Aishmuquam, Pahalgam, Azad, rallied the people against divisive forces seeking to oppress them, saying some elements are attempting to suppress them while others have succumbed to compromise, either in the past or potentially in the future. However, he stressed the urgent need for unity to thwart these attempts and appealed for collective effort to combat poverty and accelerate development in the region. He also recalled his track record of accomplishments both as Chief Minister and Union Health Minister.
Azad said, “My sole aim is to uplift the poor and ensure peace. We are committed to revitalizing the tourism sector.”
He lamented the untapped tourism potential in South Kashmir, pledging to address this oversight and harness the region’s abundant opportunities for development.
He reiterated his staunch resistance against the revocation of Article 370 in Parliament, along with his vocal opposition to the CAA/NRC and mob lynchings.
Azad specifically pointed out the silence of the MPs from the National Conference, expressing concern over their failure to speak up on these significant matters. He urged the people not to fall under the influence of political parties that seek to divide communities based on religion or region.
Azad highlighted the plight of impoverished families who took out bank loans to educate their children, only to find their highly educated youth struggling to find employment. He pledged that his government would prioritize job creation and address the issue of un- and underemployment by regularizing casual laborers and adhoc employees. He also made commitments to initiate thermal power projects and provide free electricity to marginalised households, aiming to alleviate the burden of utility expenses on those in need.
Azad also pledged to introduce legislation to protect both land and jobs, ensuring the security of livelihoods for the people, as also immediate restoration of statehood. Additionally, he vowed to uphold and enhance schemes like the Roshni Scheme, aimed at empowering marginalized communities and providing them with opportunities for growth and development.
Among others present on the ocassion included Mohd Yousef Gorsi, Chairman DDC Anantnag, Gulzar Wani Zonal President, Salman Nizami Chief Spokesperson, Mir Altaf Gen Secretary Province, Zameer Ahmed Distt President Anantnag and others.
