Kashmir: Aga Ruhullah quits National Conference after 24 years, resigns as Srinagar MP

Millat Times Desk

03 November 2026 (Publish: 12:49 PM IST)

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Srinagar MP Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi on Tuesday announced his departure from the National Conference (NC) and resignation from the Lok Sabha, citing ideological differences with the party leadership over Jammu and Kashmir’s political and constitutional rights.

Ruhullah made the announcement while addressing a gathering at Behishti Zehra Park in Budgam to mark the 26th death anniversary of his father, Aga Syed Mehdi.

He accused the NC of failing to fulfil its electoral promises, particularly those concerning the restoration of Article 370, protection of Jammu and Kashmir’s rights, reservation issues and the release of political prisoners.

He alleged that the party had failed to honour the mandate it received in the 2024 Assembly elections, arguing that its leadership had not delivered on commitments made to voters after coming to power.

Ruhullah said his decision was rooted in ideological differences and had nothing to do with the allocation of ministerial positions or the recent Cabinet reshuffle.

He also ruled out any attempt to destabilise the elected government or encourage defections, saying the Omar Abdullah-led administration should be allowed to complete its five-year term.

Ruhullah’s departure ends an association with the NC spanning nearly 24 years. He was elected to the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly from Budgam three times before winning the Srinagar parliamentary seat in the 2024 general election by a margin of about 188,000 votes.

His announcement comes amid reports of growing differences within the ruling party following a recent Cabinet reshuffle.

His resignation from the Lok Sabha will take effect only after it is accepted by the Speaker. The Srinagar constituency would subsequently require a by-election to fill the vacancy.

The Budgam district administration had permitted the commemorative gathering at Behishti Zehra Park from 10 am to 1 pm, restricting activities to the designated venue and prohibiting rallies and processions outside the premises.