DPAP Refutes Withdrawal Rumors, Announces Strategic Participation Amid Azad’s Health Concerns
Srinagar, Sep 1: Democratic Progressive Azad Party (DPAP) Chairman Ghulam Nabi Azad will not be contesting the upcoming Assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir due to health concerns. However, the party remains committed to participating in the elections on a select number of seats across the region.
During a press conference in Srinagar, Chief Spokesperson Salman Nizami clarified that although Azad was initially expected to run from the Doda constituency, his health issues have led him to prioritize his recovery and focus on campaigning for other DPAP candidates during the final phase of the election. Nizami reassured party members and supporters that Azad is steadily recovering after a recent stay at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Delhi and will soon be actively involved in promoting the party’s candidates.
Nizami firmly dispelled rumors suggesting that the DPAP is withdrawing from the electoral contest. Instead, he emphasized that the party will strategically contest in constituencies where their candidates are particularly strong. He highlighted the party’s determination to continue advocating for peace, development, and progress in Jammu and Kashmir, as outlined in their manifesto.
On a related note, four DPAP candidates recently withdrew their nominations following Azad’s announcement about his inability to campaign during the initial phase of the election. Nonetheless, Nizami affirmed that the party will continue to independently contest in areas where they hold significant influence, while maintaining a commitment to not obstructing other secular forces in the region.
Nizami also criticized the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for stripping Jammu and Kashmir of its statehood and diminishing the rights and opportunities of its youth. He reiterated DPAP’s pledge to fight for the restoration of statehood, protection of land rights, and job security for the local population, ensuring that non-residents cannot easily acquire land or employment in the region. He further highlighted Azad’s staunch opposition to the abrogation of Article 370 in Parliament, contrasting it with the current government’s silence on the issue.
