Azad Criticizes J&K Political Divide Ahead of Assembly Polls

Ghulam Nabi Azad, Chairman of the Democratic Progressive Azad Party, addressed the continuing unchanged issues in Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections, criticizing regional parties for dividing people based on religion. He emphasized that real issues like roads, schools, and education are neglected.

Ghulam Nabi Azad, Chairman of the Democratic Progressive Azad Party, expressed on Monday that the issues in the Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections remain unchanged. He recalled hearing the same slogans now that were used during his college days. Azad criticized regional parties in the Union Territory for dividing people based on religion, neglecting essential issues like roads, schools, and education.

Azad remarked, "It's heartening that elections are happening, but regrettable that they didn't occur sooner. I hoped the issues would have evolved by now, but, unfortunately, they haven't. The focus remains misguided with the rhetoric that 'Islam is in danger'. How can Islam be in danger? Despite numerous historical challenges, Islam has endured, and it will continue to do so." He further condemned the BJP's division of people based on religion, observing that local parties are similarly culpable. In areas with a dominant Muslim population, the claim that 'Islam is in danger' is unfounded, he noted.

Earlier today, during a roadshow in Ganderbal, the former J-K Chief Minister reiterated that he views leaders of other political parties as competitors, not enemies. "Political parties are rivals, not adversaries. Much like classmates competing academically while maintaining friendships, I perceive other political leaders and parties as competitors," said Azad.

Jammu and Kashmir residents are casting their votes for a new 90-member assembly in a three-phase election. The first phase, held on September 18, witnessed a voter turnout of 61.13 percent across 24 constituencies in seven districts.

The second and third phases of voting in J-K are scheduled for September 25 and October 1, respectively, with the counting of votes slated for October 8.