Not anyone’s team; my agenda peace, development: Azad
Srinagar, Apr 22: Democratic Progressive Azad Party (DPAP) Chairman Ghulam Nabi Azad today said that his party is not anyone’s team but is working on its agenda for peace and development in Jammu and Kashmir.
According to a press release, he was addressing a gathering during a roadshow at Bul Bul Nowgam in Anantnag district. “We are Azad, My party is Azad, We are not anyone's team. My sole agenda revolves around fostering development and peace. Throughout my political journey, I have adhered steadfastly to principles, never compromising for political expediency. Self-respect and integrity have been my guiding lights. When it became evident that the advice offered by seasoned leaders like myself was not heeded by the younger leadership within the Congress party, we made the decision to part ways. With a sense of resolve, we bid farewell and embarked on our grassroots mission,”Azad said.
He criticised the regional parties of Kashmir for propagating false slogans to deceive and mislead innocent Kashmiris.
“There is a need to refrain from misleading them further. Instead a manifesto focused on promising development and infrastructure must be put before them,” he said.
The former Chief Minister criticized both the regional parties, National Conference and Congress asserting that they have sidelined discussions on development. He said, "Over the years, we hve seen a betrayal of promises. The two parties in Kashmir sold dreams of autonomy and self-rule, which they conveniently forget now. Countless lives were lost, many blinded. But what have we gained? Where are the hospitals, schools, colleges, roads promised? Kashmir cries out for peace, for development, for jobs. Yet, I stand alone in raising these crucial issues, while others remain silent.”
He added that his agenda solely revolves around development and peace. “Throughout my five decades in politics, I have never resorted to false slogans to exploit people. My record speaks for itself. We prioritised development and achieved peace in Kashmir. No one can challenge my work, which promoted a culture of double and triple shifts. Moving forward, my goal is to enhance development in Jammu and Kashmir by establishing more schools, districts, hospitals, and roads,” he said.
Azad underscored the pivotal role of youth in shaping the nation's future during a recent address. He stated, "I have delegated authority to emerging leaders like Adv.Saleem Parray and Amir Bhatt. The youth are the architects of tomorrow, and it is imperative to entrust them with responsibilities. With our guidance and their enthusiasm, they hold the key to driving positive change.”
