Srinagar, May 09: Chairman Democratic Progressive Azad Party (DPAP), Ghulam Nabi Azad on Thursday accused the Kashmir-based political parties of deceiving the people of J&K regarding Article 370.
Addressing a public meeting and roadshow in Mujgund, Shalteng and Eidgah areas of Srinagar, Azad said that he was the sole voice advocating for its preservation while others remained conspicuously silent, with some even abstaining from voting against its abrogation. He urged the public to verify his claims by accessing the parliamentary speeches and vote records.
The former chief minister expressed his commitment to the cause by recalling his symbolic protest of sitting on the parliament floor, leading to the government’s concession to restore statehood. However, he stressed that the fight is far from over, citing the need to reclaim land and job rights.
Azad underscored that the upcoming election is not solely about reinstating rights, but also about addressing pressing public concerns such as escalating electricity tariffs, unemployment, and various other issues affecting the people.
He said, “During my tenure in Parliament, I was the sole advocate for Article 370, 35A and statehood while MPs from NC and PDP remained silent. Few of them even abstained from voting against it. If these elected representatives, chosen by the public, have failed to voice their concerns in Parliament, why haven’t they acknowledged their shortcomings? Why didn’t their parties field the same candidates in the parliamentary elections? Now, what can we expect from new candidates when the most senior leaders, elected last time, failed to deliver in Parliament?”
Meanwhile, the DPAP Chief expressed disappointment over the “long-standing exploitation” of the people under the guise of “autonomy” and “self-rule”. “Despite their previous fervour for these ideals, they now remain conspicuously silent on the matter, instead diverting attention with alternative slogans in an attempt to deceive the populace. The glaring absence of discourse on development is particularly troubling,” he said.
Azad said native labourers and contractors find themselves sidelined as lucrative contracts are handed over to outsiders, exacerbating the economic woes of the local workforce. “The exorbitant electricity fees further compound the burdens of the common folk, rendering basic amenities unaffordable. The absence of accountability only amplifies the frustrations of the people, who increasingly clamour for transparent governance and the restoration of democratic processes through government and assembly elections,” he said.
“If these regional parties were genuinely concerned about public issues, they would have joined us in protesting against the land eviction order, which saved the livelihoods of thousands dependent on state land. I’ve pledged to reinstate the Roshni Scheme and enact laws to protect land and jobs through the assembly,” he said.
“Our candidate, Amir Bhatt, embodies youth and integrity. I’ve opted not to favour my children in MP elections, instead, I’ve entrusted young leaders like Amir to represent the people and tackle their concerns. I’m confident he will uphold justice and prioritize addressing public issues,” he said.
