Ghulam Nabi Azad, Chairman of the Democratic Progressive Azad Party (DPAP), has withdrawn from campaigning in the upcoming Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections due to health issues. After experiencing acute chest pain on August 25, he was hospitalized at AIIMS in Delhi for two days, where doctors confirmed there was no immediate danger but recommended rest and ongoing medication. Azad expressed regret over his inability to support his party candidates during this critical time and advised them to consider withdrawing their candidacies if they believe his absence may affect their chances. His decision marks a significant setback for DPAP, which has struggled to gain traction since its formation in 2022. There are also speculations about Azad's potential return to Congress amidst declining support for DPAP, especially after a poor performance in the Lok Sabha polls. The party now faces the challenge of navigating the election campaign without its prominent leader actively involved.