Jammu: Chairman Democratic Progressive Azad Party (DPAP), Ghulam Nabi Azad on Sunday urged the public to vote for development and progress in the upcoming elections.
Addressing a series of public meetings in Jammu, where he called for unity and brotherhood among the people Azad stated, “For years, political parties have used division as a tactic, offering excuses not to develop both regions. This has led to conflict, while those in power continue to enjoy their privileges.”
He urged people to recognise that their shared struggles should unite them rather than create rifts, stressing that only through unity can genuine progress be achieved. Reflecting on his tenure as Chief Minister, he noted “People witnessed real progress and development during my time. Through double and triple shifts, we initiated a developmental revolution that no other leader has been able to replicate. Many projects that I sanctioned remain incomplete to this day, highlighting the urgent need for a renewed focus on development.”
Azad voiced concerns over the promises made by various political parties regarding the return of Article 370, asserting that these promises are not grounded in reality.
Azad stated, “We all want the return of Article 370, but we cannot expect anything from the BJP. Even Congress fails to speak on this crucial issue. It is not possible to restore Article 370 through the assembly, but we can introduce legislation to ensure that no outsider can buy land or secure jobs in our region. This was the essence of Article 370.”
He further said “I do not cheat, lie, or mislead. I recognise that some people have become accustomed to falsehoods and have been voting based on those lies, but I speak the truth, which only a few may comprehend. I will never give false hope or make unrealistic promises.”
Azad acknowledged the widespread disillusionment among people, who are tired of false slogans that have only led to bloodshed and unrest. “People are fed up with the empty promises that have resulted in nothing but chaos and division,” Azad stated.
“Today, we must focus on creating jobs for our youth, who are increasingly becoming involved in drugs, this is the biggest issue we face.”
He highlighted the desire for peace and unity among the people of Jammu, stating, “Whether in Samba, Gandhi Nagar, or Bakshi Nagar, the people of Jammu yearn for harmony. This is part of our Dogra culture and we must strive to maintain this unity. We cannot allow ourselves to be influenced by parties that seek to divide us.”
Azad further said that his return to the state is driven by a desire to serve the poor, who remain deprived of basic necessities such as water and electricity. “We will restore the Roshni scheme, which previously benefited the poor, but unfortunately, this government revoked it,” Azad stated.
“Our focus will be on ensuring that every citizen has access to the essential services they deserve.”
In his address, he outlined a comprehensive development agenda that includes the creation of more districts, schools, tehsils, colleges, and roads to enhance infrastructure and educational opportunities in the region. “This is our only agenda,” he asserted, stressing the need for tangible progress that addresses the needs of all people.
UNI
