Doda, Aug 05: Chairman Democratic Progressive Azad Party (DPAP) Ghulam Nabi Azad on Saturday said his party works above the politics of religion and region as “proved” by him during his short tenure of two and half years as chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir.
“Chenab Valley continues to remain underdeveloped after so many decades due to politics of indifference. I and my party (DPAP) stand committed to the development of all far-flung areas in Jammu and Kashmir which saw a golden era of progress during my tenure as chief minister even though it was a short period of two and half years,” Azad said at a maiden public meeting in Gaglla area of Doda district.
He cautioned the people against the elements inimical to peace by vitiating social harmony in Jammu and Kashmir, saying divisive elements are hell-bent to disturb peace among communities in the region. “The strong bonding between different communities in Chenab Valley and Pir Panjal is a clear example of how people uphold and cherish secular values in their respective communities by living in harmony for ages despite attempts to vitiate peace in neighbourhoods,” he said on the first day of his tour in Chenab Valley.
Directing the party leadership and workers to strive and strengthen bonds of social cohesion, the DPAP chief stressed that development is linked to peace and stability. “Jammu and Kashmir has already suffered during 33 years of militancy with loss of precious lives, the collapse of economy, underdevelopment and neglect. We can’t afford instability in the region as elements are out there to exploit and vitiate the peaceful atmosphere thereby the need of the hour is to remain vigilant and united,” Azad affirmed.
The public meeting was also addressed by Vice Chairman G M Saroori, Ab Majeed Wani Gen Secretary, senior DPAP leader Ramesh Parihar, and Asif Ghattu District President Doda.
