Ghulam Nabi Azad, a veteran of Indian politics with decades of experience, has recently embarked on a new political journey that has raised many eyebrows. The formation of the Democratic Progressive Azad Party (DPAP) in 2022, which was initially seen as a significant departure from his long-standing association with the Congress Party, now appears to be struggling to establish itself as a serious political contender in Jammu & Kashmir. Many are beginning to view DPAP as a faltering experiment rather than a viable alternative in the region’s complex political landscape.
The Promise of Change vs. Reality:
When Azad announced the formation of DPAP, there was a mix of optimism and skepticism among political observers and the public alike. Supporters viewed this move as a fresh opportunity to address regional issues under the leadership of a seasoned politician. However, two years on, the party has struggled to define its identity, with its approach being marked by inconsistency and a lack of clear vision.
The party’s ambiguous stance on key issues and its inability to distance itself from Azad’s past political affiliations with Congress have led to growing perceptions of DPAP as a political stunt rather than a genuine effort to reshape Jammu & Kashmir’s political future.
Challenges in Gaining Ground:
One of the key challenges facing DPAP has been its difficulty in securing the loyalty and confidence of influential political figures. The party has experienced several high-profile departures, which have significantly weakened its position in the region.
For instance, Tara Chand, the former Deputy Chief Minister of Jammu & Kashmir, was initially considered a significant asset to DPAP. However, his subsequent departure from the party and return to Congress highlighted the internal challenges and leadership issues within DPAP. Chand’s exit underscored the party’s inability to provide a coherent strategy or compelling vision that could retain experienced leaders.
Peerzada Mohammad Sayeed, another veteran politician with deep roots in Congress, faced a similar experience. His initial involvement with DPAP ended in disillusionment, leading him to return to Congress. This defection, along with that of Tara Chand and others, dealt a significant blow to DPAP’s credibility and stability.
Salman Nizami, a young and dynamic leader who was seen as a rising star, also faced difficulties within the party. Although he was expected to play a crucial role in connecting with the youth of the region, the lack of clear direction and support from the party leadership hampered his efforts. The missed opportunity to harness Nizami’s potential further illustrates DPAP’s struggles in building a strong and cohesive team.
Mismanagement of Political Assets:
Perhaps one of the most telling examples of DPAP’s internal mismanagement is the sidelining of Mehboob Bhat, Ghulam Nabi Azad’s nephew and an experienced political figure in Kashmir. Despite Bhat’s extensive knowledge and connections within the region, he was overshadowed by less experienced newcomers. This decision, which seemed to prioritize novelty over proven political acumen, contributed to significant setbacks for the party, especially in Azad’s home constituency.
The electorate’s response to Bhat’s marginalization was clear—voters perceived it as a sign of Azad’s inability to effectively utilize the strengths within his own ranks, further eroding confidence in DPAP’s leadership.
A Disappointing Performance:
The formation of DPAP was intended to mark a new era in Jammu & Kashmir’s political landscape, with regional issues at the forefront. However, the party’s performance so far has been lackluster, characterized by internal divisions, a lack of clear direction, and an inability to present a compelling vision for the future.
Azad’s tenure as Chief Minister of Jammu & Kashmir from 2005 to 2008, though marked by some developmental initiatives, did not lead to the significant political or social reforms that the region needed. This legacy of missed opportunities seems to be continuing in his leadership of DPAP, where similar shortcomings are apparent.
The recent decision to withdraw from the Anantnag-Rajouri Lok Sabha seat, citing health reasons, has further weakened DPAP’s position. This retreat has reinforced perceptions that Azad’s political maneuvers lack the commitment and conviction necessary to succeed in the highly competitive and volatile political environment of Jammu & Kashmir.
A Party in Limbo:
As it stands, DPAP seems to be struggling to find its footing in Jammu & Kashmir’s complex political landscape. What began as a potentially transformative political movement now appears to be in danger of becoming a footnote in the region’s political history—a half-hearted experiment that failed to live up to its initial promise.
Ghulam Nabi Azad’s long career in politics is undeniable, but his latest venture with DPAP raises serious questions about his commitment to the cause he claims to champion. Without a clear vision, strong leadership, and full commitment, DPAP risks fading into obscurity, remembered more for its missed opportunities than for any lasting impact on the region’s political future.
