Srinagar, July 25 (KNS): Democratic Progressive Azad Party President and former Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad on Saturday said that the demand for restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir is a collective voice of the people, cutting across all regional and religious lines.

Speaking to reporters at Jammu, Azad said whether it is South or North Kashmir, or the three regions of Jammu, there is complete consensus among the people that full statehood is essential for progress, representation, and dignity.

Azad said the call for statehood transcends regional and religious lines and reflects the collective voice of Jammu and Kashmir. “There is no dispute on the issue of statehood neither among the people of Jammu province nor Kashmir. Whether it is South Kashmir or North Kashmir, or the three regions of Jammu, everyone agrees that statehood is necessary. No religious group is opposed to it,” he said.

He further said that both the Union Home Minister and Prime Minister have already assured in official meetings that statehood will be restored. “But some reductions and delays in the process have prolonged the matter. I believe statehood should be the first and foremost priority,” Azad said.

Cautioning political parties against exploiting the issue for short-term gains, Azad said that this must not be turned into a political slogan to draw public attention. "There should be serious discussion, not partisan fights. The people want delivery, not drama.”

He said that restoring statehood is not only about dignity and representation but also a crucial step toward achieving real development and employment. “Without a proper government in place, how can development reach the grassroots?” he asked.

Azad also expressed concern over the lack of basic infrastructure and public works in the Jammu. “In the last three days, I met people from many districts in Jammu, and not a single person told me there is any road construction, footpath repair, or even whitewashing work going on.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp ChannelIf this is the state of governance, then how will unemployment go away? How will people feed their families?” he asked.

He added that while central government projects related to electricity and highways are operational, development at the local level remains stalled. “Central schemes are going on, but the development that comes from elected representatives and local administration is missing,” Azad said.
Speaking on the growing crisis of unemployment, especially among educated youth, the DPAP chief said that there is massive unemployment, and you can’t provide jobs unless there are works going on. "Workers need roads and buildings to be constructed so they can earn a living. Development is the engine that drives employment.”

Commenting on a recent protest by the Congress party, Azad said that better coordination among opposition parties would have strengthened the movement. “If Congress had reached out to other parties and discussed the plan, it would have been more impactful. Unfortunately, they stood alone. Political protests should be preceded by serious dialogue,” he said.

He also said that there are two types of protests, one symbolic, to show solidarity, and another aimed at achieving goals. “This time, there should have been more consultation and less focus on who would participate or gain political mileage,” he added.

Azad said that after the elections, the time for posturing is over. “Now it’s not about who gains credit. It’s about taking meaningful action. If statehood is something everyone agrees upon, it should not be delayed any further,” he said.

"Jammu and Kashmir must get its statehood back. Only then will true development take place,” he said.(KNS)