SRINAGAR: At the National Conference’s (NC) first working committee meeting since the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections, party MP Aga Ruhullah Mehdi staged a walkout following a sharp exchange with Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, The Print reported.
The meeting, held on Wednesday, was expected to deliberate on the NC’s political strategy and internal functioning. However, it quickly turned tense as Ruhullah launched a scathing critique of both the party’s direction under Omar Abdullah and what he described as the government’s failure to live up to its electoral commitments.
Ruhullah is understood to have accused the party of losing ideological clarity and aligning too closely with the narrative emanating from New Delhi. “He expressed his disappointment in the way things have been progressing and publicly confronted the core working committee,” one insider was quoted by the news portal. “Ultimately, he chose to walk out of the meeting as a mark of protest.”
Attendees said Ruhullah challenged the party leadership’s approach to issues such as Article 370 and the restoration of statehood, arguing that the NC had failed to act decisively on its manifesto promises. “We should stop treating the working committee meeting as a public milan,” he reportedly said. “If we are not delivering on the promises we made in the manifesto, we are letting our own people down. Whether it is Article 370 or other issues, we have not moved an inch.”
Most of the leaders who attended the meeting, however, reposed trust in the leadership and expressed satisfaction with the government’s performance under Omar Abdullah. It was the same Working Committee meeting of May 21, 2025, in which the party unanimously passed seven key resolutions.
The Committee began by strongly condemning the horrific Baisaran attack that claimed 26 lives, including that of young Kashmiri Syed Adil Hussain Shah. It also denounced the continuing cross-border shelling that has taken 23 civilian lives. Expressing profound grief and solidarity with the bereaved families, the Committee paid heartfelt tributes to the party leaders and activists who have passed away since the last session, acknowledging their service and dedication.
The Committee declared this goal essential to the dignity and aspirations of the people and vowed to continue its struggle for its reinstatement. It also demanded the immediate restoration of full statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, citing repeated assurances made by the Government of India in Parliament and acknowledged by the Supreme Court.
The Committee welcomed the announcement of a ceasefire and urged both India and Pakistan to uphold it while engaging in meaningful dialogue aimed at a lasting resolution to the cycle of violence. Emphasising the party’s responsibility towards its electorate, the Working Committee reiterated its commitment to its manifesto and pledged to pursue its political and constitutional goals through democratic means.
The Committee appreciated the people of Jammu and Kashmir for their spontaneous and overwhelming condemnation of the Baisaran attack and for extending warmth and hospitality to stranded tourists during difficult circumstances. It called upon the Government of India to acknowledge this collective expression of peace and solidarity and warned against counterproductive actions such as arbitrary arrests, youth harassment, use of bulldozers, and curbs on free media, which could alienate a population that has consistently stood against violence.
Lastly, the Committee expressed grave concern over the reported harassment and targeting of students, traders, and residents from Jammu and Kashmir in other parts of the country following recent events. It called upon all state governments to ensure their safety, dignity, and protection. However, the party faced music for preferring a party meeting instead of an assembly where it is a majority.
