Former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Ghulam Nabi Azad, has put to rest rumors suggesting that he is vying for the position of Lieutenant Governor (LG) in the region. Speaking at a rally commemorating the foundation day of his Democratic Progressive Azad Party (DPAP), he clarified that his primary aim is not employment but rather to serve the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
Azad urged the public not to lend credence to the ongoing speculations, asserting, “I will request people not to trust the rumor mills which are working in overdrive… There is a fresh rumor here that Ghulam Nabi Azad is going to be the next LG.”
He went on to emphasize that his return to Jammu and Kashmir politics is driven by a commitment to address the pressing issues faced by the region. Unemployment and inflation are two significant challenges, according to Azad, and he expressed his determination to tackle them by harnessing the tourism potential of the area.
“Inflation is on the rise. It is true that inflation is not specific to India. Europe has the highest inflation, but they have other means to tackle it. We are a poor state,” Azad remarked. “Unemployment is on the rise. There are no jobs. Government is advertising posts but interviews are not held. Educated youth have no jobs, and their parents have exhausted their savings on their education.”
Highlighting the transformative potential of tourism, Azad said, “Tourism has the potential to provide a livelihood for all sections of society.” He cited the success of initiatives like the Tulip Garden, which has offered livelihood opportunities to thousands of people.
Azad’s vision for the region included plans for developing numerous tourist locations in each district of Jammu and Kashmir and providing loans to facilitate the establishment of homestay facilities, creating earning opportunities for residents.
Reflecting on the abrogation of Article 370 and Article 35A by the Central government in 2019, Azad termed it a “great mistake.” He noted the historical significance of Article 35A and its connection to Maharaja Hari Singh, emphasizing that its removal had caused uncertainty about land ownership.
Azad also called for civility in political discourse, urging party leaders not to resort to personal attacks against opponents. Additionally, he advocated for stringent measures against the drug mafia in Jammu and Kashmir, including the death penalty for those involved in drug-related crimes.
Ghulam Nabi Azad’s commitment to serving the people of Jammu and Kashmir underscores his continued dedication to addressing critical issues and contributing to the region’s progress.
Sources By Agencies
