VIJAYPUR: Senior National Conference (NC) leader and former Minister, Surjeet Singh Slathia has exhorted the people to defeat the machinations of dividing the people on region and religion, saying unity alone can steer Jammu and Kashmir to peace, progress and development. Addressing workers at Gurha Salathia in Vijaypur, Slathia said that NC is a secular party and is committed to uphold the secular ethos in J&K. To restore peace and strive for empowerment of down-trodden and marginalized segments of society is the core agenda of the party. The party is also committed for the empowerment of the women folk which constitutes more than 50% of the population. Slathia referred to the challenges faced to Jammu and Kashmir and exuded confidence that the people in general and the N C cadre in particular will meet these with courage and fortitude by fighting divisive forces. He said the NC is committed to the welfare of the people and will strive for equitable opportunities to all segments of society in Jammu and Kashmir. He referred to the various strides taken in this regard in the past to assuage urges and aspirations of people. He also dwelt in length on steps taken by the successive NC led governments in providing employment to unemployed and ensuring fast track development. The former Minister urged the people to vote and support NC candidates in the ensuing DDC elections to achieve the ultimate objective of serving them with a sense of devotion and dedication.
