Azad directs DPAP leaders not to make personal attacks against rivals

JAMMU: Expressing displeasure over use of “abusive language” by some politicians, Democratic Progressive Azad Party chief Ghulam Nabi Azad on Wednesday directed his party leaders not to speak ill or make personal attacks against leaders of other parties.

Azad also asked party spokespersons not to speak on any sensitive or controversial issues without permission.

The directions were passed in a circular issued by party general secretary R S Chib here.

“During the past few years the political scenario and thinking at national and state levels has totally changed, as a result of which, unfortunately the mutual respect and regard which existed earlier for the leaders of other political parties has totally disappeared.

“It has generally been seen that both leaders and spokespersons of different political parties resort to mudslinging and sometime not only use foul and unparliamentary language but also resort to abusive language, which has lowered the image of the leaders in the eyes of the public and society as a whole and unfortunately the respect and confidence, the leaders enjoyed earlier does not exist anymore,” the circular read.

Keeping the prevailing situation in mind, Azad has issued several directions to the party leaders and spokespersons, which should be strictly followed to ensure discipline and decorum in the party.

“No leader from DPAP will speak ill or make any personal attack against leaders of any other political parties. No leader, spokesperson or any individual of DPAP shall henceforth speak against or disrespect the sentiments of SC/ST or any other caste, region or religion as well as against any social or political organization,” the circular said.

It said no leader shall misuse his or her official position to collect money in the name of the party.

“No spokesperson will speak to the media on any sensitive or controversial issue without the permission of the general secretary, in-charge of media (Chib), and chief spokesperson Salman Nizami,” Azad said.