Need unified political approach for restoration of J&K statehood: Azad

Democratic Progressive Azad Party (DPAP) chairman Ghulam Nabi Azad has called for a unified political approach for the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood.

Azad also expressed concern over the state of development in Jammu and Kashmir, saying while central projects were progressing, state-level initiatives were “completely halted”.

“Even the Prime Minister and Home Minister have committed to restoring it (statehood) on the floor of Parliament. Some mistakes kept happening due to which there was a delay. First, a demand should be placed (before the government), but people immediately take to the streets,” Azad told reporters here.

“The matter should be discussed seriously, not just to divert public attention,” he said.

Speaking on the ongoing protests and political mobilisations demanding statehood, Azad asserted that while everyone has the right to protest, meaningful dialogue with the central leadership should have preceded such actions.

“Protests are of two kinds — symbolic and goal-oriented. But before hitting the streets, the political leadership should have engaged with Delhi. We need unity, not fragmentation, on this issue,” he said.

Azad emphasised that the demand for the restoration of statehood has a broad consensus across communities and regions.

“There is no opposition to the idea of statehood — be it in Jammu, Kashmir, or among any religious groups,” he said.

On the National Conference’s recent call for a special session on statehood, Azad welcomed the idea, stating that the Assembly is a shared platform for all parties and the matter should not be viewed through a partisan lens.

Amid speculation about his potential appointment as the Vice-President of India, Azad dismissed the reports as baseless.

“These are mere rumours. Serious constitutional posts should not be discussed on the streets. The media and public should not entertain such talks,” he said.

He also parried a direct reply to questions on the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar, saying the issue remains under debate and is likely to be taken up in Parliament.

Azad also reiterated concern over development work in Jammu and Kashmir, saying that while central projects were progressing, state-level initiatives were “completely halted”.

“Development by the local administration is negligible. Labourers could easily be employed through basic infrastructure projects like roads, water and power supply. I have visited 15 districts. People say that not even a footpath is being built. If there is a government, why is nothing visible on the ground?” he asked.