Srinagar: Democratic Progressive Azad Party (DPAP) Chairman Ghulam Nabi Azad will not contest the upcoming Assembly election due to health issues, but the party will still contest on select seats in Jammu and Kashmir.
Chief Spokesperson Salman Nizami announced during a press conference in Srinagar that Azad was initially slated to contest from the Doda segment but due to his ill health he has now decided to focus on campaigning for his candidates during the final leg of the first phase.
Nizami emphasized that DPAP has not withdrawn from the electoral race, as rumored, and will instead contest on limited seats where their candidates are strong.
He assured party workers, supporters, and well-wishers that Azad’s health is recovering after a recent hospitalization at the All India Institute of Medical Science in Delhi.
“Azad will soon begin campaigning for his candidates, focusing on the party’s manifesto of bringing peace, development, and progress to Jammu and Kashmir,” he said.
On Friday, four candidates affiliated with DPAP withdrew their nominations from Assembly elections after Azad said he won’t be able to campaign during the first phase due to some health issues.
“DPAP will contest polls independently in areas where their candidates are strong, without hindering secular forces,” he said.
Nizami criticized the BJP for snatching statehood, powers, and job opportunities from Jammu and Kashmir’s youth.
He pledged that DPAP will fight for the restoration of statehood, land rights, and job security, ensuring that outsiders cannot purchase land or seek employment in the region.
Nizami highlighted Azad’s vocal opposition to the abrogation of Article 370 in parliament, contrasting it with the current silence on the issue.
UNI
