Shadow Correspondent
Doda, Sept 15: Chairman DPAP & former Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad addressed two massive gatherings in the Doda East constituency today. Rallying in support of DPAP candidate Ab Majid Wani, Azad reiterated his commitment to the development of the Chenab Valley, claimed that the region will witness renewed progress under his leadership. Addressing an enthusiastic crowd in Thathri, Azad highlighted the extensive development work carried out during his tenure as Chief Minister and Union Minister. “Whether it is Doda or any other area in the Chenab Valley, the massive development witnessed during my leadership stands as proof of our dedication to uplifting this region,” said Azad. He assured the people that DPAP will continue to prioritise infrastructural growth and welfare in the chenab valley. Azad further said that significant developmental strides in Chenab Valley, including the establishment of medical college, university, schools, districts, roads, tehsils, and hospitals, were all made during his tenure as Chief Minister and Union Minister. “For over seventy years, other parties have exploited the people of this region and ignored their needs. But all the major work was done when I was in office,” said Azad. He further added, “These parties do not understand the pain and struggles of the poor. I have personally felt the pain because I, too, come from a village and understand the hardships faced by common people.” Azad assured the people that DPAP will continue to work for the upliftment and welfare of the region’s most marginalised. He urged the people to remain vigilant against communal politics and division based on religion, particularly during the election period. He stressed for the importance of unity, stating, “We will ensure equal development for everyone, regardless of caste or creed and at this stage in my life, I do not seek wealth. My only desire is to bring relief to the poor and uplift the underprivileged,” he said, highlighting his commitment to the welfare of all citizens. He pointed out, “We provided free ration to the poor, but the present government has reduced the scale.” Azad further said, “We had given free land through the Roshni scheme, but the government stopped it. We will restore the Roshni scheme and ensure free ration up to 50 kg for the poor.” He further committed to significant relief measures, promising, “No electricity bill will be charged from the poor.” In his vision for development, Azad stressed the need for better infrastructure, stating, “We will ensure road connectivity to all villages, even to the last house on the mountain.” Azad also outlined plans for rapid progress, announcing, “We will introduce double and triple shift work culture to accelerate development.” His message was clear: the focus will be on restoring support for the underprivileged and ensuring comprehensive development for all. Azad voiced the deep concerns of the people following the revocation of their rights on August 5, 2019. He pledged to introduce legislation in the assembly that will prevent outsiders from buying land or securing jobs in Jammu and Kashmir. “We will safeguard the rights of the people and ensure that their land and jobs remain protected,” he stated firmly. He also expressed grave concern over the rising issue of drug abuse among the youth.
