Srinagar, Sept 12: Democratic Progressive Azad Party (DPAP) chairman and former Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad on Thursday launched his election campaign from south Kashmir, calling for an end to “false promises” and “empty slogans”. He advocated for a politics centred on real development and progress for the people.
Addressing a public gathering in Anantnag in support of DPAP candidate Mir Altaf, Azad urged the public to embrace a new era of politics that prioritises development, peace, and prosperity in Jammu & Kashmir. He expressed gratitude for the prayers and support he received during his recent illness, saying, “I was unwell, but with the blessings and prayers of my well-wishers, I am recovering. Now, I have come to stand with my candidates, whose only aim is to help people and become their voice.”
Azad said the leaders in his party are not driven by a hunger for power but are focused on bringing meaningful change to their constituencies. “This is the only mission I have,” he added.
He also voiced disappointment with other political parties, accusing them of using false slogans to mislead the public. “For how long will they continue to exploit the people?” Azad asked, stressing the need for truthful politics that focuses on real development.
The former chief minister criticised parties that attempt to defame independent candidates, saying, “Everyone has the freedom to participate in elections; no one is the custodian of Jammu & Kashmir.”
He said if people, especially the youth, want to participate in elections, even those who have left my party, he will not speak against them. “Instead, we must support them. We must encourage and welcome those who wish to join the mainstream and contribute to the political process,” he said.
The DPAP chief said he left national politics to “bring change” in J&K. “I have to complete the pending works which were my dream because I was not able to complete my term as Chief Minister,” he said.
Highlighting his developmental achievements both as Chief Minister and Union Health Minister, Azad said, “The development work I have done as CM and Union Health Minister is in the public domain.” He then challenged other political parties to present their accomplishments, saying, “Now I challenge the other parties to show me their work. They will only exploit people.”
