National Conference leader and MLA Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi has announced his resignation from the party, citing differences with its leadership over the political approach towards the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s rights and identity.
In a letter dated November 3, Ruhullah said the abrogation of Articles 370 and 35A in 2019 was a major assault on the rights, history and political identity of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
He said he had expected the National Conference, as a major political force in Kashmir, to lead a sustained struggle for the restoration of these rights. However, he alleged that after securing a decisive mandate in the 2024 Assembly elections, the party shifted its priorities towards governance instead of pursuing the promised political struggle.
Ruhullah expressed disappointment over what he described as the party’s retreat from its responsibility at a crucial time when determined political leadership was needed.
He said differences with the party leadership emerged after he raised concerns about its political approach. Maintaining that he could not compromise with his principles and political conscience, he decided to part ways with the party.
In his letter, Ruhullah also thanked National Conference president Farooq Abdullah for their political journey together, adding that he would continue to serve the people of Jammu and Kashmir while remaining committed to his principles and values.
Earlier, Ruhullah had announced his decision to resign from the National Conference during a rally in Budgam held on the martyrdom anniversary of his father, late Aga Syed Mehdi.
