I fought against Art 370 revocation in Parliament, others were silent: Azad

STATE TIMES NEWS

SRINAGAR: Chairman Democratic Progressive Azad Party (DPAP), Ghulam Nabi Azad on Monday slammed the regional parties for misleading the people with false promises and agendas.
While addressing at road shows in Ganderbal and Hazratbal, Azad said that these parties have repeatedly exploited the sentiments of the masses without offering any real solutions to the issues faced by the people.
He said that while MPs from the other parties even Congress chose to remained silent during the revocation of Article 370, he was the only MP and LoP who stood firmly in opposition.
“I fought against the revocation of Article 370 in Parliament and even sat on a Dharna to express my dissent,” he said.
He reflected on his time at Kashmir College, recalling how regional parties have continuously raised the same slogans that have led to the loss of many lives.
He said that these parties often use emotional rhetoric to divert attention from their failure to deliver on development.
Azad asserted, “No mosque or religion is in danger. If anyone attempts to attack our faith, I would be the first to stand up and sacrifice for the people.”
He highlighted his role in halting the government’s land eviction orders, stating he was the only one to intervene while others remained silent.
He stated, “No party talks about development. When I served as Chief Minister, I granted district status to Ganderbal and made hospitals, schools, and roads.”
Azad said that many leaders have failed to deliver progress, claiming, “They have misused the votes, lied, and cheated the public.” He assured the residents of Ganderbal that his party remains committed to advancing development initiatives in the area. “We will do more for the development of Ganderbal,” he said.
Azad also addressed critical employment issues in Jammu and Kashmir, asserting that the current government’s policies have marginalised local residents. He pointed out that outside contractors dominate the sand industry, leaving locals without jobs and economic opportunities.
“Our youth are facing dire circumstances, with many turning to drugs due to a lack of employment,” Azad stated.
“If elected I will introduce legislation to ensure that only locals can buy land and secure jobs in our region”, he said.
Azad also promised free electricity for the poor, and said while some areas still lack power.
“I’ve only had two and a half years to make a difference. Given another chance, we’ll focus on more development. People are upset because their rights have been snatched and we will fight for your rights, including statehood. Our party is democratic and progressive, believing in opportunities for common and young leaders not my own children. We want to empower common people to contest and be the true voice of the people. Our agenda is progress and peace; no false promises, only commitments we can fulfil”, he added.