My father was not in power when I started my political career, or when I fought my first election in 1996. Starting like any ordinary person, I reached out to people everywhere.

But when I entered politics, I found that this was the space that could be used for making lives of people better.

Over last 30 odd years, Kashmir has seen many highs and lows when looked at from the perspective of the security scenario, infiltrations and militancy on the ground.

Jammu is part of the state but the people of Jammu do not face the same kind of difficulties that we face in Kashmir.

Working-class, blue-collar guys who volunteered for Vietnam were ascribed certain political beliefs. It's time that this was redressed. It had nothing to do with politics. Once these men got to Vietnam, it was a matter of survival.

Defend the church. Defend the family. Defend the non-profit community. Defend them against a government that wants to weaken them.

You know, we're taught that in a democracy power comes from being elected.

We would be a much healthier culture if the government had never told us how to eat.