NC mulls expulsion of MP Aga Ruhullah; senior leaders oppose move
Srinagar, Oct 27: The National Conference (NC) is facing a fresh round of internal turbulence as the party leadership is reportedly weighing the option of expelling its Srinagar Member of Parliament, Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi, from the basic membership of the party.
Sources told ANN News that the proposal has gained ground within a section of the top leadership after Ruhullah’s recent public statements questioning the party’s functioning and leadership style. According to these sources, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah is said to be at the forefront of the idea, though the move has met stiff resistance from several senior figures and sitting MLAs.
Those opposing the proposal are said to have cautioned that expelling Ruhullah could deepen divisions within the party and alienate workers, particularly in central Kashmir, where the MP has a significant following. “Differences should be addressed through discussion, not expulsion,” one senior leader remarked privately.
The reported move comes against the backdrop of Aga Ruhullah’s growing distance from the party’s decision-making process. Over the past few weeks, he has openly expressed his disillusionment, saying that “politics in Jammu and Kashmir must rise above personal egos” and that his “voice no longer matters” within the NC.
Earlier, Ruhullah had also declared that he would not campaign for the party’s candidate in the Budgam by-poll, citing unfulfilled promises by the government. His public criticism has been viewed by many within the party as a direct challenge to the current leadership.
The simmering discontent intensified after the recent Rajya Sabha election, which saw allegations of cross-voting and “match-fixing” after the BJP secured a seat despite the NC’s numerical advantage. Ruhullah had been vocal in demanding transparency and accountability, insisting that the party reveal names of those who cross-voted.
As of now, no formal decision has been taken, but insiders say that internal discussions are continuing.
Party spokespersons have so far refrained from commenting on the issue.
No NC spokesperson was available for comments. However, ANN will update the story as and when NC issues any comments or clarification.
