'Politicians exploit people by emotional slogans'

Srinagar, Apr 4: Expressing confidence that the dialogue process between India and Pakistan would bear fruit, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad said the people had been exploited during the past 60 years by using emotional slogans which yielded no results.

Mr Azad said a considerable improvement in relations between the two countries envisage amicable resolution of all issues.

Addressing a public meeting at Wakura in the newly created district of Ganderbal, the Chief Minister said at the time of assuming office he had assured that added attention will be given towards restoration of peace in Jammu and Kashmir and in that pursuit concrete steps have been initiated both at Centre and State levels to carry forward the peace process with a coordinated approach.

Mr Azad said the government set up eight districts, four each in Jammu and Kashmir divisions, to fulfill the aspirations of people.

He said while the Wazir Commission had recommended only one district at Bandipora for Kashmir and three districts for Jammu division, his government went a step further and accorded four districts each in both the divisions as this was the present requirement on the ground.

Mr Azad expressed happiness that people in general and media in particular were extending whole-hearted support in his war against corruption.

The Chief Minister said during the last four-and-a-half years liberal funds had been provided by the Centre and these had to be utilised judiciously to ensure benefits to the people.

He asked the people to become the ''eyes and ears'' of the government and raise their voice against irregularities.

UNI