Diplomat Correspondent
Srinagar, (DD): National Conference (NC) Member of Parliament Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi has called an important meeting today amid mounting tensions with the party leadership. The meeting, which is expected to include his close aides and political supporters, has sparked speculation about his future course within the party and the broader political landscape of Jammu and Kashmir.
Sources suggest that Ruhullah, who currently represents the Srinagar constituency in the Lok Sabha, may use the meeting to assess political options, including the possibility of taking an independent stand. The development comes just weeks ahead of the Lok Sabha elections in the Union Territory, adding to the political intrigue.
Background of the Rift
Aga Ruhullah has long been known as a fierce advocate for the restoration of Article 370 and Jammu and Kashmir’s special constitutional status, which was abrogated by the Centre in August 2019. He has repeatedly called for a more assertive political posture from regional parties, including the NC, and has been critical of what he perceives as the party’s silence or soft-pedaling on key issues related to Kashmiri identity and autonomy.
Ruhullah’s discomfort became more pronounced after the party announced its candidate for the Srinagar seat during the current election cycle, which he initially opposed. While he eventually agreed to contest after a closed-door dialogue with party leadership, sources say he remains dissatisfied with the internal decision-making process and lack of clarity on the NC’s broader political roadmap.
Tensions Within the Party
Ruhullah has previously distanced himself from the People’s Alliance for Gupkar Declaration (PAGD), citing differences over strategy and what he sees as diluted resistance to Delhi’s policies post-2019. His assertive and independent views have often placed him at odds with NC Vice President Omar Abdullah and other senior leaders.
Today’s meeting, therefore, is being seen not just as a personal consultation, but as a potential turning point for his political future. While the National Conference has not issued any official response, insiders say the leadership is closely monitoring developments.
What Lies Ahead
If Ruhullah chooses to break ranks with the party or adopt a semi-independent political path, it could significantly alter the political calculus in central Kashmir. Given his grassroots appeal and principled stance, especially among the Shia community and youth, his decisions could influence voter sentiment in a tightly contested election season.
Political observers believe that this moment could either lead to a reconciliation within the party—or mark the beginning of a new political alignment in Kashmir’s volatile landscape.(DD)
