Srinagar, July 14: Democratic Progressive Azad Party (DPAP) Chairman Ghulam Nabi Azad on Sunday urged New Delhi to introduce “people-friendly” laws for Jammu & Kashmir.
Speaking to KNS, Azad criticised the implementation of “harsh” laws and called for a more compassionate approach towards the region. “The people of Jammu and Kashmir have been suffering since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019. J&K is not like Pondicherry or Andaman and Nicobar; it has been a historical state,” he said.
The former J&K chief minister argued that the demotion of Jammu & Kashmir from a state to a Union Territory was an injustice. He said the region has unique historical and cultural significance. He expressed his dissatisfaction with the amendments to the J&K Reorganisation Act, which have enhanced the powers of the Lieutenant Governor (LG).
“Holding assembly elections under these circumstances would be meaningless, as the state should be granted full powers,” he said, adding, “This state should be given full powers as it is not normal but a historical state.”
Azad urged the Central government to change its behaviour towards the people of Jammu & Kashmir, saying that such a change is mandatory to bridge the gaps between Delhi and the region. “Empowering the local administration and enacting laws that resonate with the needs and aspirations of the people would foster a better relationship between the central government and Jammu & Kashmir,” he added.
