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

Srinagar : Chairman DPAP, Ghulam Nabi Azad today slammed regional parties for misleading the people with false promises & agendas. While addressing at a road shows in Ganderbal, Hazratbal Azad stated that these parties have repeatedly exploited the sentiments of the masses without offering any real solutions to the issues faced by the people.
In a statement issued here on Monday Azad said that while MPs from the other parties even Congress chose to remain silent during the revocation of Article 370, he was the only MP & 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 further 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 further 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. Highlighting Jammu and Kashmir’s unique challenges as a conflict state, he said the present government has failed to fulfill its promises, resulting in a stark lack of employment and opportunity for our people.” 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 & 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 fulfill.