Srinagar, November 27, 2025 : In a sharp escalation of internal discord within the National Conference (NC), Srinagar MP Ruhullah Mehdi on Thursday claimed he was not invited to the party’s two-day working committee meeting — a first since 2002 — and openly questioned the party’s commitment to fulfilling promises made during the 2024 Assembly elections.
Speaking to reporters in Ganderbal, Mehdi said he learned of the meeting through the media.
“If there is a working committee meeting, I am a permanent member. This is the first time in over 20 years that I did not receive an invitation,” he said.
Says Differences Are About Principles, Not Power
Mehdi, a prominent Shia leader and one of the NC’s most vocal figures, denied any plans to form a new party, asserting that his concerns are rooted in principle rather than personal ambition.
“My fight is not for a chair. My disagreements are solely about principles and the failure to deliver on what we promised in one year,” he said.
He noted that the NC sought votes on the commitment to push for restoration of constitutional guarantees under Article 370, and to work for the release of political prisoners — issues he claims the party has not pursued with seriousness.
Warns Against ‘Diluting Cause’
In a direct critique, Mehdi accused the NC leadership of narrowing its agenda to the restoration of statehood, calling it a deviation from the party’s mandate.
“We cannot dilute our fight by using the BJP’s language. Limiting our struggle to statehood is treading the BJP’s path. We cannot betray the people,” he said.
He warned that failing to uphold the party’s core political commitments could irreparably damage public trust.
Trust Deficit & Accountability
Mehdi highlighted the fragile trust voters placed in mainstream politics during the 2024 elections.
“This trust came after a huge deficit. If there is betrayal now, the loss will be irreversible — not just for one party but for the entire representative system,” he cautioned.
Reservation Issue: Ultimatum to Government
Referring to his ultimatum on the reservation issue, Mehdi said he would be compelled to stand with protesting students if the matter is not resolved by the end of the current Parliament session.
“It is a matter of urgency. If the issue is not resolved within a month, I will protest against the government until justice is done,” he said.
He insisted that the protest would not be against the NC but in support of students seeking resolution.
