Budgam, Nov 3: National Conference MP Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi on Tuesday announced his decision to sever ties with the National Conference and resign from his Lok Sabha membership representing Srinagar.
He made the announcement while addressing a gathering at Behishti Zehra Park in Budgam on the 26th death anniversary of his father, Aga Syed Mehdi. Ruhullah said his decision was driven by his political principles and what he described as the party's failure to fulfil commitments made to the people during the 2024 elections.
During the gathering, Ruhullah also handed over a copy of his resignation letter to the father of Tufail Matoo, adding a symbolic significance to the announcement.
Ruhullah's differences with the National Conference leadership have grown over several issues, including the restoration of Article 370, the release of political prisoners, reservation policy and the protection of Jammu and Kashmir's constitutional rights.
He has repeatedly criticised the party for failing to pursue its electoral promises with the seriousness expected by voters after forming the government. He has maintained that the public mandate was secured on commitments that included the restoration of Article 370 and safeguarding the political rights of the people.
The political confrontation intensified in August when NC president Farooq Abdullah challenged Ruhullah to resign and seek a fresh mandate if he believed his electoral victory reflected his personal political support. Ruhullah subsequently announced November 3 as the date for his departure from both the party and Parliament.
He has also questioned the party's emphasis on statehood restoration, arguing that it cannot replace the demand for restoring the constitutional safeguards associated with Article 370 and Article 35A.
Ruhullah's announcement comes at a time when the National Conference is reportedly facing internal disagreements following its recent Cabinet expansion. His decision is expected to have political implications for the party and raises fresh questions about its internal unity and the implementation of its electoral commitments.
