Budgam, May 17 (JKNS): The Awami Ittehad Party (AIP) on Sunday held a grand workers’ convention at Sail Beerwah in the Beerwah Assembly constituency, where hundreds of party delegates and workers participated with enthusiasm and commitment.
The convention was presided over by AIP General Secretary and Beerwah Constituency Incharge Nazir Ahmad Khan. He addressed the gathering on a wide range of issues including the prevailing political situation, developmental concerns, and public welfare challenges in the region.
In his address, Nazir Ahmad Khan strongly criticised the National Conference, stating that the party has once again betrayed the people of Jammu and Kashmir. He said the leadership of NC must clarify its position before the public, adding that people cannot be repeatedly misled while the same political parties continue to return to power despite widespread dissatisfaction.
He said the people of Jammu and Kashmir, irrespective of religion or region, deserve honest leadership and transparent governance. “Unless people themselves change their political thinking and choices, the situation will remain the same,” he remarked.
Referring to the Rathsun incident, Nazir Ahmad Khan expressed grief and said action has already been initiated against the official involved in the firing incident. However, he urged the administration to adopt a humanitarian and practical approach towards tractor owners and labourers dependent on the Sukhnag stream for their livelihood.
He stated that many educated unemployed youth, including graduates and matriculates, had purchased tractors under government subsidy schemes to earn their livelihood. “The Sukhnag stream has always been closely linked with the local economy. Construction activities require materials like sand and stones, and complete restrictions leave people without any means of survival,” he said.
Nazir Ahmad Khan called upon the government to develop a regulated mechanism for controlled extraction of minor minerals during flood and rainy seasons from designated sites, ensuring that environmental concerns are not compromised. He also expressed concern over the depletion of water springs in the area and stressed the need to balance environmental protection with livelihood security.
He further stated that during his tenure as Chairman, action was taken against illegal mining and fake registrations, adding that AIP will continue to raise its voice against exploitation and environmental violations.
Welcoming the intensified anti-drug campaign launched by the Lieutenant Governor’s administration, Nazir Ahmad Khan said that society as a whole must support efforts aimed at saving the younger generation from the menace of drugs. He urged Manoj Sinha to include alcohol under the ongoing “Nasha Mukht Abhiyan,” stating that its increasing availability was contributing to social degradation and moral decline among youth.
On governance and development issues, he said it was unfortunate that even elected representatives and ministers are expressing helplessness in delivering public services. He stressed that people demand accountability and those in power must either fulfil their responsibilities or take moral responsibility for failure.
Speaking about AIP President and Member of Parliament Engineer Rashid, Nazir Ahmad Khan said that despite facing difficult circumstances inside and outside prison, he has remained firm on principles and never compromised on public interests. He urged the Government of India to ensure his immediate release and expressed hope that the upcoming court hearing in July would bring positive developments.
He also criticised the delimitation process, calling it unfair and politically motivated. However, he noted that despite challenges created by the new boundaries, it has also provided an opportunity to reconnect with old associates and families across different areas.
In conclusion, Nazir Ahmad Khan announced that AIP will further intensify its grassroots outreach across the Beerwah constituency in the coming days by forming new party units and strengthening its organisational structure at the village level. (JKNS)
