Democratic Progressive Azad Party (DPAP) chairman Ghulam Nabi Azad has emphasized the need for a united political approach to ensure the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood.
He also raised concerns over the developmental situation in the region, stating that while central government projects are making progress, state-level initiatives remain “completely stalled.”
Democratic Progressive Azad Party (DPAP) chairman Ghulam Nabi Azad has stressed the need for a unified political approach to push for the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood, emphasizing dialogue over street protests.
“Even the Prime Minister and the Home Minister have assured on the floor of Parliament that statehood will be restored. However, certain missteps have delayed the process. Before taking to the streets, a formal demand should be placed before the government,” Azad told reporters.
He added, “The issue needs serious discussion, not political posturing meant to divert public attention.”
Speaking on the ongoing protests and political mobilisations, Azad noted that while everyone has the right to protest, such actions should follow meaningful engagement with the central leadership.
“There are two kinds of protests — symbolic and goal-oriented. But before taking to the streets, the political leadership should have held talks with Delhi. On this issue, we need unity, not division,” he said.
Azad also pointed out that the demand for the return of statehood enjoys wide support across communities and regions. “No one is opposed to statehood — be it people in Jammu, Kashmir, or from any religious group,” he asserted.
He welcomed the National Conference’s recent call for a special session on statehood, stating that the Assembly is a collective platform and the matter should be treated above partisan politics.
Rejects Vice-President Speculation, Comments on Development
Amid speculation about his potential appointment as India’s Vice-President, Azad dismissed the rumours as unfounded.
“These are just baseless rumours. High constitutional posts should not be discussed on the streets. The public and media should avoid such speculation,” he said.
Asked about the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar, Azad declined to comment in detail, saying the issue is still being debated and may come up in Parliament.
Azad reiterated his concern over stalled development in Jammu and Kashmir, pointing out that while central government projects are underway, state-level initiatives remain inactive.
“The local administration has done little. Basic works like roads, water supply, and power could have created employment for local labourers. I’ve toured 15 districts, and people say not even a footpath is being built. If there’s a government in place, why isn’t anything visible on the ground?” he asked.
On Parliament, EC, and Party Developments
Reflecting on frequent disruptions in Parliament, the former Rajya Sabha Opposition Leader said, “I’ve always stood for the smooth functioning of Parliament. Even when the Lok Sabha was being disrupted, the Rajya Sabha would continue under my leadership.”
Asked about Rahul Gandhi’s remarks questioning the Election Commission’s credibility, Azad refrained from commenting, calling it a matter between Gandhi, the poll panel, and the government.
Regarding Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar’s resignation, Azad said he met him recently and believes health concerns may have prompted the decision.
“I’ve known him for 40 to 50 years. He cited health issues for stepping down. I cannot say for certain if there were other reasons, but I believe his health genuinely played a role,” he said.
Push for Elections and Internal Party Updates
Azad also stressed the urgency of holding long-pending panchayat, municipal, and local body elections in J&K, saying these would boost grassroots-level employment and governance.
On internal matters within the DPAP, he acknowledged that some former ministers and legislators had left the party but described it as part of India’s political culture. He affirmed that the party’s grassroots support is growing steadily.
Responding to Farooq Abdullah’s call for the resignation of LG Manoj Sinha over the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, Azad said such incidents have happened during previous governments as well, and should not be politicised.(Media reports)
