Accelerate momentum of devlopment : Azad

Jammu, Apr 6 (UNI) Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad today urged the people to come forward and help re-construction of the strife-torn state.

Addressing a rally in Bhaderwah town this morning, the chief minister said economic liberalisation policies started decades ago by the union government had benefitted all the states of the country except Jammu and Kashmir. This state has always lagged behind.

He said the level of corruption had gone down during the past five months after he took over as the chief minister. Development too has witnessed an upswing, he added.

''This momentum is required to be accelerated further.'' he added.

Mr Azad also appealed to the people to keep proper check on develpmental activities of the state so that no pilferage of money is made by corrupt elements.

He said his determination to work for everlasting peace brought him to the valley. ''It is only in the atmosphere of peace that state can progress and compete with other developed states,'' he added.

Mr Azad reiterated the current bye-election in state shall be fairest of all elections and any government employee, civilian or police found guilty of violating the model code of conduct shall punished.

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