‘Free electricity to poor if elected to power’
Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Mar 10: Former J&K Chief Minister and Chairman DPAP Ghulam Nabi Azad today alleged that regional parties exploited people on the plank of Regional Autonomy and Self Rule for decades.
Addressing a large public meeting in Kokernag area of Anantnag today Azad alleged that regional parties like NC and PDP indulged in exploitation of Kashmiris over the years, particularly by raising slogans advocating autonomy and self-rule. He stated that while the MPs of these regional parties remained silent on the matter. He actively protested in Parliament against revocation of Article 370. “Why do NC and PDP no longer raise these slogans? They fooled the people, enjoyed power, and caused the deaths of innocent people.”
He reiterated his commitment to championing the cause of people and ensuring their voices are heard on the national level. He stressed the need for unity, cautioning that these parties may ally with anyone for power but will not do justice to the people. They will only use and exploit the voters.
Azad revealed a personal connection, with South Kashmir stating, “My grandfather was originally from Kokernag. We moved to Doda, but there’s a special connection between us. Let us rebuild that relationship. Anantnag has always been in my heart. I have established a Medical College, degree college, hospitals, and schools here. I want to do even more for this district, especially for Kokernag. Give me a chance to serve”, Azad said.
He highlighted his efforts in granting land rights to the poor through the Roshni scheme. He emphasized that when the Government attempted to seize the land, he was the sole voice to speak up, halting the bulldozers. He promised to restore the Roshni scheme if elected to power. Azad further stressed the urgency of tackling unemployment, promising to address the issue once elected to power. He emphasized the importance of providing loans to those who are not highly educated, enabling them to start businesses and earn a livelihood.
Azad highlighted the untapped potential of tourism that needs to be boosted, expressing regret over not being able to complete his term as CM. He remarked that if given the chance, he would have sanctioned more tourism projects to harness this potential. He promised to provide free electricity for the poor and pledged to focus on building roads, hospitals, and furthering development in triple shifts. He expressed concern over the burden of electricity bills on the people, especially the poor, and appealed to the government to reduce the bills for those in need.
Among others who were present on the occassion included- GM Saroori vice chairman, Ch Haroon Khatana general secretary, Salman Nizami chief spokesperson, Adv Saleem Parray official spokesperson, Zamir Ahmed Distt president, Shahida Begum and others.
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