Azad promises free power, free ration to poor

Doda, Sep 15: Chairman Democratic Progressive Azad Party (DPAP) and former chief minister Ghulam Nabi Azad Sunday promised free power and free ration to the poor and vowed to bring developmental revolution to Chenab Valley.

Addressing two gatherings in the Doda East constituency while rallying in support of DPAP candidate Abdul Majid Wani, Azad reiterated his commitment to the development of the Chenab Valley and said that the region would witness renewed progress under his leadership.

Addressing an enthusiastic crowd in Thathri, Azad highlighted the extensive development work carried out during his tenure as chief minister and union minister.

“Whether it is Doda or any other area in the Chenab Valley, the massive development witnessed during my leadership stands as proof of our dedication to uplifting this region,” he said.

Azad assured the people that DPAP would continue to prioritise infrastructural growth and welfare in the Chenab Valley.

He said that significant developmental strides in Chenab Valley, including the establishment of medical colleges, university, schools, districts, roads, tehsils, and hospitals, were all made during his tenure as the chief minister and union minister.

“For over 70 years, other parties exploited the people of this region and ignored their needs. But all the major work was done when I was in office,” Azad said. “These parties do not understand the pain and struggles of the poor. I have personally felt the pain because I, too, come from a village and understand the hardships faced by common people.”

Azad assured the people that DPAP will continue to work for the upliftment and welfare of the region’s most marginalised.

He urged the people to remain vigilant against communal politics and division based on religion, particularly during the election period.

He stressed the importance of unity, and said, “We will ensure equal development for everyone, regardless of caste or creed and at this stage in my life, I do not seek wealth. My only desire is to bring relief to the poor and uplift the underprivileged.”

He highlighted his commitment to the welfare of all citizens and pointed out, “We provided free ration to the poor, but the present government has reduced the scale.”

Azad said, “We had given free land through the Roshni scheme, but the government stopped it. We will restore the Roshni scheme and ensure a free ration of up to 50 kg for the poor.”

He committed to significant relief measures, promising, “No electricity bill will be charged from the poor.”

In his vision for development, Azad stressed the need for better infrastructure, and said, “We will ensure road connectivity to all villages, even to the last house on the mountain.”

He also outlined plans for rapid progress, announcing, “We will introduce double and triple shift work culture to accelerate development.”

His message was clear: the focus will be on restoring support for the underprivileged and ensuring comprehensive development for all.

Azad voiced the deep concerns of the people following the revocation of their rights on August 5, 2019.

He pledged to introduce legislation in the assembly that would prevent outsiders from buying land or securing jobs in Jammu and Kashmir.

“We will safeguard the rights of the people and ensure that their land and jobs remain protected,” he said.

Azad also expressed grave concern over the rising issue of drug abuse among the youth.

“Our young generation is getting involved in drugs, and we must act swiftly to stop this menace,” he said.

Azad vowed to create new job opportunities to steer the youth towards a brighter and more productive future.