Srinagar MP Reflects on Political Isolation and Moral Duty
Srinagar, 15 April 2025: A Rift Within the Party
National Conference (NC) MP Aga Ruhullah Mehdi has voiced his frustration over the party’s apparent disengagement with him, stating that his opinions are no longer valued. Speaking during a live session on X Spaces, Ruhullah revealed that the disconnect began after his support for a student protest against the controversial reservation policy last year.
Aga Ruhullah’s Perspective
Ruhullah shared that while his views were once acknowledged within the party, the dynamic shifted dramatically following the December 23 protest outside the Chief Minister’s residence. “Until the Assembly elections, my opinions mattered. Even if the party disagreed with my methods, it still supported my ideas. But after the reservation protests, the party stopped engaging with me,” he said.
The MP clarified that he refrained from openly confronting the party, understanding its need to manage equations with the central government. “I know they have to manage equations for governance. That’s why I didn’t impose my stance on them. At least no one can say that I cost them statehood,” he added.
The Reservation Policy Protest
Ruhullah’s fallout with the NC leadership stems from his support for a spontaneous student protest against a new reservation policy, which reduced the open merit quota to around 30%. The MP described his involvement as a matter of conscience, stating, “I didn’t organize any protest. It was a spontaneous gathering of students who felt betrayed. If my presence helped raise their voice, I consider it my duty fulfilled”.
Moral Duty and Political Isolation
Expressing anguish over the ongoing disconnect, Ruhullah emphasized that his politics is driven by conscience rather than ambition. “What I say comes from my conscience, not from any political design. I don’t need to prove it to anyone. God is my judge,” he remarked.
Despite his position as a sitting MP representing Srinagar, Ruhullah lamented that the party’s leadership no longer seeks his inputs. “There are no takers for my political thinking anymore,” he said.
Looking Ahead
As Ruhullah continues to navigate his strained relationship with the NC, his reflections highlight the challenges of balancing personal convictions with party dynamics. The disconnect underscores broader questions about representation and the role of conscience in politics.
