Negative politics has no takers: Ghulam Nabi Azad

Srinagar, Apr 26: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad today cautioned the people against detractors of peace and said there was no room for negative politics in the 21st century.

''In our country, every individual is free to profess his or her faith freely and fearlessly and those who divide people in the name of religion do it just for personal considerations,'' Mr Azad told a public gathering at the newly-created Bandipora district.

The round-table conference was a historic chance made available to the people of Jammu and Kashmir in the past 60 years to address all issues, he said adding, ''Wiser are those who seize the rare opportunities time provides.'' A three-tier strategy would be launched to implement the recommendations of the working groups and short, medium and long-term approach is being put in place in this regard, the chief minister.

Referring to the cordial Centre-State relations and keen interest of the UPA leadership to ensure all-round development of Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh, Mr Azad said a golden opportunity to develop and prosper was available.

''Unprecedented financial succour provided by the UPA government has opened new vistas for equitable development of all areas. The Centre has been so liberal and magnanimous that we receive much more than we ask for,'' he added.

The Chief Minister expressed hope that in the coming years, the Centre would extend huge financial assistance to the state.

The historic decision of creation of new districts has opened up remote, far-flung, backward and unattended areas for massive development, he said.

Creation of eight new districts, 12 tehsils and three sub-divisions, ahead of the recommendation of the Wazir Commission vindicated his government's keen desire to usher in an era of all-round development, Mr Azad added.

He said placing of district officers in the newly-created districts was in pipeline and drive the for acquiring accommodation for offices had been going in full swing.

''When I took over as the Chief Minister, I promised development of far-flung and backward areas. The creation of new administrative units is a significant decision in this regard,'' Mr Azad said.

Reiterating the importance of peace and conducive atmosphere for progress and development, the Chief Minister said any kind of threat perception hampers the march toward prosperity.

Mr Azad appealed to the youth to play their all-important role in cultivating peace in the state and become a part of the socio-economic change.

''Islam is the great religion, which symbolises love, truthfulness, brotherhood and amity and those who exploit the people in the name of religion do not actually have firm faith. Islam has never ever been in danger. In fact, it is the politics of such elements, which is endangered by this false propaganda,'' he said.

Earlier, the Chief Minister laid the foundation stone of a degree college complex at Bandipora. The complex was likely to be completed by this December-end at an estimated cost of Rs 3.39 crore.

UNI

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