Agha Ruhullah Mehdi Left in the Cold by NC After IIOJK Reservation Protest

Once a key voice within the National Conference, Agha Ruhullah Mehdi now finds himself sidelined—his political journey taking a sharp turn after standing with students in protest against a controversial reservation policy.

Srinagar MP Agha Ruhullah Mehdi has revealed that his relationship with the National Conference (NC) has deteriorated significantly, especially after he participated in the student-led protest against the new reservation policy outside Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s residence in December.

Speaking during a live discussion on Twitter Spaces, Ruhullah explained that his ideas were once acknowledged and respected by the party—particularly around the time of the Assembly elections. According to him, even though the NC didn’t always support his approach, it still aligned with his political vision. However, things changed drastically following the protests.

He stated that communication between him and the party has “virtually stopped.” While he was once an active contributor to party discussions, now his opinions are no longer sought or valued. Ruhullah said the party’s internal dynamics shifted noticeably after the election period ended.

Despite the rift, Ruhullah showed a level of understanding regarding the NC’s political constraints. He acknowledged the party’s efforts to maintain a working relationship with New Delhi, likely in hopes of achieving statehood or ensuring governance stability. “I didn’t want to be blamed for delaying statehood by a few months,” he said. “So, I held back from pushing my stance aggressively.”

The turning point, he insists, was the reservation agitation. The protest, which was organized by students and not by Ruhullah himself, was a pivotal moment. “I didn’t lead or call for the protest. It was a spontaneous gathering of students outside the CM’s residence. I simply went there to stand with them,” he clarified.

Despite being accused of instigating the unrest, Ruhullah defends his presence at the protest as an act of solidarity with the youth who elected their leader and expected answers.

He emphasized that his positions have always been “natural and organic,” not driven by political ambition or agenda. He expressed disappointment that his honest views are now met with silence from his party, but remains firm in his convictions.