SRINAGAR — A growing internal divide within the National Conference (NC) is becoming evident as senior party figure and Member of Parliament Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi publicly expressed discomfort with recent remarks made by party leader Omar Abdullah, according to a report by Kashmir Observer.
Omar Abdullah recently stated that it would be “foolish” to expect the restoration of Article 370 from the same people who revoked it. Ruhullah, who has been a staunch advocate for the reinstatement of the special constitutional status for Jammu and Kashmir, voiced his discontent with Omar’s comments and announced plans to address the issue directly with the NC vice president.
Observers note that Ruhullah’s consistent stand on Article 370 has resonated strongly with NC’s base, particularly in the recent Assembly elections. His stance attracted both traditional non-voters and first-time voters, contributing significantly to NC’s sentimental vote bank. His absence from recent party events has fueled speculation of a deepening rift within the party.
Former deputy mayor of Srinagar, Sheikh Imran, highlighted the issue on social media platform X, stating, “Ruhullah’s ideological clarity has clearly made Omar Abdullah uncomfortable as he attempts to build a ‘working relationship’ with the BJP-led Central government.”
Ruhullah, who has been an outspoken critic of BJP policies in Parliament, has seen his political profile rise, with his speeches against the abrogation of Article 370 going viral. His strong stance has positioned him as a key figure within the party, but his recent warnings to NC — that he would oppose his own party if it failed to deliver on the expectations of the people — have created uncertainty about the party’s future direction.
This internal tension has raised concerns among NC supporters, with some questioning Omar Abdullah’s shift in tone regarding the restoration of Article 370. Member of Parliament Engineer Rashid, representing North Kashmir, publicly asked whether people would have to wait indefinitely under BJP rule for the restoration of Article 370. Others on social media have echoed these concerns, questioning Omar’s commitment to the fight against the abrogation.
The NC’s election manifesto, released in August, promised 12 key guarantees, including the restoration of Article 370 and 35A, repeal of the Public Safety Act, release of political prisoners, job creation, and renewed dialogue between India and Pakistan. However, the party’s internal conflict over the path forward has left many wondering how these promises will be fulfilled.
