Regional parties neglecting crucial public issues: Azad

Anantnag, May 19: Chairman of the Democratic Progressive Azad Party (DPAP) Ghulam Nabi Azad today criticised the regional parties for neglecting crucial public issues in their election campaigns.

During a series of roadshows at Bijbhera in Anantnag, Azad expressed his discontent with the current political discourse, stating that these parties claim the election is not about fundamental issues like water and electricity. "Why are these parties contesting elections if they are not addressing the real problems faced by the people? Are they here to exploit the innocent people once again," he said.

Azad highlighted the pressing concerns that affect everyday life, noting a significant rise in electricity bills, lack of water facilities in rural areas, increasing unemployment, and the growing problem of drug abuse among youth. He emphasised that young people are forced to compete with outsiders for jobs, further exacerbating their struggles. "Why are these critical issues not part of the election agenda," Azad asked. He urged the electorate to demand accountability and focus on real solutions to the challenges they face daily.

The DPAP chairman said, "It has become their habit to fool Kashmiris. For years they fooled them with self-rule and autonomy, and now they are fooling them with Article 370. I want to ask them, if you are serious about Article 370, why did not you file an appeal in the Supreme Court? Why did not you speak in Parliament? Do you expect BJP or Congress to restore Article 370? They do not even talk about it anymore. In fact, many Congress leaders, including sitting MPs and Chief Ministers, supported BJP on Article 370, and even many opposition parties like AAP and others. Now you expect them to get Article 370 back? They have not put it in their manifesto. So enough of fooling people. I promise if we come to power, we will pass the land and job protection law."

THE DPAP chairman promised that if DPAP comes to power, they will pass laws to protect land and jobs for the people of the region. "Enough of fooling people. We will take concrete steps to ensure the rights and well-being of our citizens," he said.

Meanwhile, he urged the people to support his candidate, Advocate Saleem Parray, in the upcoming Lok Sabha election.