Srinagar, Nov 10: Abdul Ahad Yatoo, formerly associated with the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and Congress (as General Secretary), joined the Democratic Progressive Azad Party (DPAP) on Friday in the presence of party chairman Ghulam Nabi Azad.
Yatoo from the Pattan area of north Kashmir’s Baramulla district on the occasion said he has returned to where he truly belongs. He said Jammu and Kashmir can only be led effectively by Ghulam Nabi Azad, given his strong administrative grip and visionary approach to the people.
Yatoo, while joining the party, conveyed his deep connection with Azad, mentioning that his heart was always aligned with Azad even when he was physically elsewhere. He admitted that life seemed meaningless and challenging in Azad’s absence.
Addressing the gathering, Azad said he is always committed to meritocracy, highlighting the party’s policy to promote individuals based on merit rather than connections with higher-ups.
“In the DPAP, any worker can ascend to a senior leadership position by proving their worth through hard work and competence,” he said.
The former chief minister made it clear that the party does not tolerate corruption or tainted individuals, and he welcomed anyone into the party who shares a commitment to serving the people selflessly.
The DPAP chief urged party members to follow a path of selfless service, saying that building a respectable image through genuine public service would naturally earn the people’s respect.
He encouraged party workers and leaders to focus on serving the people genuinely, asserting that such dedication would negate the need for door-to-door campaigning.
Notable figures present at the occasion included Mohd Amin Bhatt, Provincial President; Gen Secretary Ch Haroon Khatana; Salman Nizami, Chief Spokesperson, Adv Saleem Parray official Spokesperson, Sujada Bashir Spokesperson, Shafiq Shabnam Provincial Gen Secretary and Gh Nabi Palpuri.
