NC, Cong mislead public, my focus development: Azad

Jammu, Apr 15: Democratic Progressive Azad Party (DPAP) chairman and former Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad Monday accused the National Conference and Congress of misleading the public. Describing NC as BJP’s “A Team”, he alleged that their (NC, Congress’) actions and accusations were stemming from frustration due to the strong presence of DPAP in the Chenab valley.

Azad also questioned Congress’ silence on Article 370. While addressing a public meeting in Doda, Azad rebuked the selective attention of political parties towards the plight of Chenab valley people. He criticized Congress and NC for their silence on critical issues like land eviction order and Article 370.

Azad accused NC of tacitly supporting the BJP’s agenda for its own interests, highlighting its failure to prioritize the welfare of the people. Targetting National Conference leadership, he questioned, “Where were these political tourists in Chenab valley during these ten years of people's suffering? Did they raise their voices against land eviction or Article 370 in Parliament? No. They seem to be aiding the BJP in every action. Their leaders are too busy appeasing the BJP, just check their statements. They are the ones who declared their doors open for NDA, not me. So, who's the BJP's A team? It's NC.”

Taking on NC vice president Omar Abdullah, Azad described him (Omar) as a ‘tourist’ who would spend summers in London and winters in warmer climates abroad. He pointed out that despite their political actions, such as implementing the Public Safety Act (PSA) and the loss of innocent lives, “Omar and his cohorts continued to live luxuriously, showing a lack of concern for the people.” Azad reaffirmed his commitment to serving the people of the state. He emphasized that unlike some, he did not indulge in leisurely vacations but remained dedicated to addressing the suffering of his people.

Azad also questioned the Congress party’s stance on Article 370. Reflecting on his time as Leader of the Opposition, he emphasized his advocacy for Article 370, 35A, and statehood. He expressed concern over the current silence from the Congress on these significant issues. He said that instead of confronting the BJP, the Congress seemed to direct its focus on targetting DPAP, suggesting a perceived decline in its influence.

Former Chief Minister characterized this shift as indicative of internal frustration within the party. He said, “Congress is silent on Article 370. They didn't even speak when I was in Congress. Only I know how I managed to speak on Article 370 in parliament.” Azad criticized the party's (Congress’) lack of a clear stance, accusing it of misleading and abusing those who questioned its leadership. He lamented their (Congress leaders) failure to address public issues, attributing their electoral losses to this neglect.

He criticised those in Congress who prioritized appeasing the high command and stated that they were doing injustice to the party.

Expressing empathy for the struggles faced by the people, Azad declared his unwavering determination to bring justice and development to the region. He urged the public to scrutinize his track record, highlighting his significant contributions to development efforts.

Former Chief Minister appealed to the public to support G M Saroori, the DPAP candidate, in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. Recognizing Saroori's tireless efforts and unwavering dedication, Azad praised him as a secular leader committed to addressing public issues. He expressed confidence in Saroori's ability to effectively represent the people's concerns in parliament, citing his track record of advocacy and action.