In a scathing critique of the National Conference (NC) and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Democratic Progressive Azad Party chairman Ghulam Nabi Azad accused both parties of prioritizing power over the interests of the public. Speaking at a public gathering in Mendhar, Poonch district, Azad also condemned Pakistan for its frequent ceasefire violations along the borders and pledged to allocate government land to border residents for their safety once his party assumes power.
Azad vowed that if his party comes to power, border residents from Poonch to Kathua will be provided with land for constructing houses in safer areas. This initiative aims to offer residents a refuge during tense situations such as firing incidents along the borders.
Highlighting the disparity in treatment within political circles, Azad noted that while he was not appointed as a Member of Parliament or a minister by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), leaders like NC vice president Omar Abdullah held ministerial positions in the BJP-led government under former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
Azad criticized the NC and PDP for their history of opportunistic alliances, citing instances where both parties collaborated with the BJP to gain power. He emphasized that the pursuit of power by these parties often came at the expense of the public’s interests, and he warned against potential future alliances between the NC and the BJP.
Reiterating his commitment to the development, peace, and prosperity of Jammu and Kashmir, Azad stressed the importance of unity among communities. He urged the Pahari and Gujjar communities to stand together and resist attempts by political parties to sow division over issues such as the scheduled tribe (ST) status.
Azad concluded by congratulating the Pahari community for achieving ST status and underscored the significance of maintaining unity for the progress and development of the region.