Ghulam Nabi Azad Urges Unity and Respect Amidst Political Divisions in Jammu and Kashmir

Ghulam Nabi Azad, the former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir and leader of the Democratic Progressive Azad Party (DPAP), expressed his worries on Thursday regarding the declining sense of brotherhood in the region. He emphasized the importance of respecting everyone, regardless of their political beliefs. Azad was in Reasi district to offer condolences to the family of a party worker who had passed away. Speaking to the media, he stated, "I have always believed that everyone you know, irrespective of their religion or political affiliation, deserves respect. Politics is temporary, but we are human beings first. Whether we are Hindus, Muslims, or belong to any party, the brotherhood that once existed in Jammu and Kashmir is now fading away."

 

Calling for an end to divisive politics, Azad urged the people of Jammu and Kashmir to unite and rebuild a social fabric based on peace, respect, and cooperation. He noted that only through collective efforts can the region move towards stability and development. During his visit, Azad patiently listened to the concerns of the residents and assured them that their issues would be raised on appropriate platforms. Accompanying him were several senior party leaders and activists from Reasi district. He reiterated his demand for restoring Jammu and Kashmir's statehood, arguing that it is essential for the region's progress.

 

Azad stated that statehood is crucial for development and progress in the region. He clarified that the issue of statehood is not merely a Hindu-Muslim matter or limited to Kashmir; it affects every party, religion, and region. Whether one is from the BJP in Jammu or the National Conference in Kashmir, or belongs to Congress or PDP, statehood is necessary for all. Earlier on Tuesday, the Congress party protested against the central government for "betraying the people of Jammu and Kashmir" and failing to restore statehood after the abrogation of Article 370.

 

Congress leader and party general secretary (organization) K.C. Venugopal participated in a protest at Jantar Mantar, stating that the central government is going back on its promise to grant statehood to the region. Amidst chants from party workers, Venugopal remarked that the Indian government is deceiving the people of Jammu and Kashmir. He pointed out that they had previously promised to restore statehood, which they have not fulfilled. He added that while they have heard of a Union Territory becoming a state, they have never heard of a state becoming a Union Territory, highlighting the injustice done to the people of Jammu and Kashmir.