Aga Ruhullah Mehdi at odds with the Abdullahs

Differences between Mehdi and Abdullahs over key issues raise concerns about NC’s unity and future.

New Delhi: Nearly three months after the formation of the National Conference government in Jammu Kashmir, with Omar Abdullah becoming the Chief Minister of the Union Territory, serious differences have emerged between the Chief Minister and his party colleague, MP Aga Ruhullah Mehdi.

These differences have become a hot topic in Kashmir’s political circles, raising questions about the personal and political bond between Abdullah and Mehdi.

The crux of the disagreements centres around three major issues: reservation policy, restoring statehood, and the revocation of Article 370.

Mehdi has openly criticised the reservation policy and even staged a protest outside the Chief Minister’s residence a few days ago, along with agitating students and leaders of the opposition parties.

Mehdi has opposed the NC’s stance on Article 370, advocating not just for statehood restoration but for the full restoration of Article 370, a stance that has not been well-received by many within the NC.

Abdullah, while addressing a press conference in Srinagar, suggested that Mehdi, along with other parliamentarians, should lead a protest for the restoration of statehood during the upcoming parliamentary session.

Mehdi tweeted on X, “I’ve been informed about an urge and desire to protest for statehood in Delhi. I AM READY to participate in such a protest, and invite those prioritising statehood to organise it. I will also try to organise support from at least more than 100 Hon’ble MPs. I believe for them there is no better time than January to organize it, when India’s Constitution—the very document that enshrined our special status—was adopted.”

A party insider, speaking to The Sunday Guardian on the condition of anonymity, said, “All is not well between the Chief Minister and Aga Ruhullah.”

“He (Mehdi) protested outside the Chief Minister’s house, and it was not well-received by party members. Mehdi is a responsible leader, but his actions are causing confusion. It is clear that he is unhappy with Omar Abdullah’s stand on Article 370, as Omar’s main focus is now on running the administration and maintaining good relations with the Centre”, the source said.

When asked about whether they are on speaking terms, he said, “The last time Mehdi spoke with Chief Minister was nearly two weeks ago. His last conversation with Party President Farooq Abdullah was two months ago. This is not sitting well with the party, and several speculations are being raised.”

Another senior NC leader, who confirmed that all is not well between the two, told The Sunday Guardian on the condition of anonymity, “Serious questions are being raised about Mehdi’s actions. But, I cannot comment further, as we have been advised not to speak to the media on this issue.”

The rift between Mehdi and Abdullah has raised concerns about the unity within the NC and could impact the party’s future prospects, according to insiders.