Azad Hints at NC's Opportunistic Alliances, Opts Out of Lok Sabha Race - 2024-02-19

Azad Hints at NC's Opportunistic Alliances, Opts Out of Lok Sabha Race

SRINAGAR: Democratic Progressive Azad Party (DPAP) chairman, Ghulam Nabi Azad hinted that the National Conference, known for its power-hungry nature, could form alliances with various parties while announcing his decision not to contest the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, opting instead to campaign for his party’s candidates.

“Parliament election is 100 percent taking place on its time and I can only guess about the Assembly polls (in J&K) as I have no contact with the Election Commission or Government. But Assembly elections have to take place as the Supreme Court has set a deadline of September 2024,” Azad said while speaking to media persons here at Nagrota.

“I have to campaign for my party candidates and if I contest, I will be held up at one place,” he said and termed the National Conference as an opportunistic party, which can align with anyone provided they come to power.

He referred to their history of political opportunism and power-seeking tactics and accused the NC of prioritizing their hunger for power over the interests of the people of J&K.

He pointed out that the NC had previously formed alliances with the BJP, despite ideological differences, and remained silent on critical issues such as the revocation of Article 370. “I was aware of their talks with BJP in 2014,” he added.

Azad, who has refrained from contesting Lok Sabha elections after his defeat in 2014 Lok Sabha polls, asked his party men to gear up as 2024 would be the election year for Jammu and Kashmir. He commended the tireless dedication of party workers in expanding the party’s presence across every corner of the J&K within a span of just one and half years.

He stressed the significance of ensuring victory on all Lok Sabha and Assembly seats in the upcoming elections. He underscored the pivotal role of grassroots mobilisation in securing electoral triumphs and advancing the party’s agenda.

“As we prepare for the upcoming Lok Sabha and Assembly elections, it is imperative that we intensify our grassroots efforts to secure victory,” Azad said and added that his Government had sanctioned numerous development projects aimed at enhancing education, healthcare, infrastructure, and tourism in Jammu and Kashmir.