Azad says communal forces dividing the state

Akhnoor (JK), Jul 14: Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad, who resigned after a row over the transfer of forest land to the Shri Amarnath Shrine Board, has come out strongly against communal forces.

Addressing a maiden rally after quitting office, Azad accused communal forces of playing divisive politics in the state.

"They (communal forces) will not allow the formation of hospitals, schools, colleges or a university, and will do things that spread hatred in the name of religion and region so that people in this state always continue to fight with each other," Azad said.

Governor's Rule was imposed in Jammu and Kashmir on July 11 after Azad had submitted his resignation without facing a floor test in the Assembly.

The floor test was necessitated after the People's Democratic Party (PDP) withdrew its support to Azad's Government over the Amarnath land transfer row and reduced his Government to a minority.

The withdrawal of support followed by a State Government order to transfer 39 hectares of forestland to the Shri Amarnath Shrine Board (SASB).

The order was revoked on July 1. The Government took responsibility for taking care of the Amarnath pilgrims.

The State Assembly has since been dissolved. Till fresh Assembly polls take place in the State in October, Governor's rule has been imposed. The new Assembly is to start functioning from November 3.

ANI