SRINAGAR: National Conference general secretary Salman Ali Sagar on Saturday dismissed reports of serious internal differences within the ruling party, asserting that its legislators continued to have full confidence in the leadership.
Reacting to reports that around 20 MLAs had expressed dissatisfaction over the functioning of certain ministers and an adviser, and reportedly given the leadership 15 days to address their demands, Sagar said the situation had been exaggerated.
Speaking to reporters, he said senior party colleagues had held discussions and described the gathering of legislators as a routine internal meeting that had been given undue prominence.
Sagar acknowledged that differences and grievances could arise within the party but maintained that they did not indicate any serious crisis.
“Anyone can have grievances, including me. At the same time, everyone has the right to express their displeasure,” he said.
He said the legislators would meet National Conference president Farooq Abdullah and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to raise their concerns and could submit a memorandum outlining their demands.
According to Sagar, the party leadership would examine the issues and consider addressing those found to be genuine.
He said some concerns could be taken up for corrective action if the leadership found them justified.
Sagar also rejected suggestions that the reported dissatisfaction could weaken the party, accusing its political opponents of attempting to exploit the situation and create divisions within the National Conference.
On questions surrounding organisational decisions, including his appointment as general secretary, Sagar said Dr Farooq Abdullah would be better placed to explain the reasons behind the decisions taken by the leadership.
He also dismissed speculation about the possible departure of senior leaders Gulam Hassan Mir, Mohammad Akbar Lone and Kaiser Jamsheed Lone, describing them as important figures in the party.
“Don’t be under the impression that they are going anywhere. They are pillars of the National Conference here,” he said.
The reported differences have surfaced following the first Cabinet reshuffle in the Chief Minister Omar Abdullah-led government in Jammu and Kashmir, with reports of discontent among a section of National Conference legislators over the changes.
