Tensions flared within the National Conference (NC) as senior leader and Member of Parliament from Srinagar Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi staged a dramatic walkout from a Working Committee meeting held on Wednesday May 21, citing ideological differences and accusing the party of drifting from its core agenda.
Multiple sources confirmed that the walkout followed a sharp exchange between Ruhullah and party vice president Omar Abdullah over the party’s current focus and priorities.
According to insiders present at the closed-door meeting, what was supposed to be a strategic session on the NC’s political roadmap instead turned into a platform for routine praise of Omar Abdullah’s governance. This reportedly prompted Ruhullah to interrupt the proceedings and express his dissatisfaction.
“This isn’t a public milan,” Ruhullah said, according to sources. “This is a Working Committee meeting—and we are betraying the people by abandoning the core promises we made in our manifesto. Our fight is for Article 370, not for day-to-day bureaucratic governance.”
The statement sparked a heated exchange with Omar Abdullah, who defended the party’s focus on development and statehood, arguing that these were essential steps toward restoring dignity and rights to the people of Jammu & Kashmir.
“If you believe in this fight so much, contest the Budgam by-election and be part of the government,” Omar reportedly told Ruhullah, referring to the latter’s recent decision to run for Parliament despite previously expressing reluctance post-Article 370 abrogation.
Ruhullah’s response, as described by sources, was blunt and emotional:
“Let’s get this straight—I never asked for that seat. You approached me. And I’m ready to resign if that helps bring clarity to our cause. I don’t need a chair to speak for the people. They’re disillusioned. They feel abandoned.”
Shortly after the exchange, Ruhullah stood up and walked out of the meeting.
Party insiders say the incident has created a ripple effect inside the NC, with many members acknowledging the emotional weight and political significance of Ruhullah’s remarks.
Meanwhile, National Conference has not issued any official statement on the matter. However, sources indicate that the internal disagreements may deepen in the coming days, especially as the party prepares for future electoral contests. ANH
