Agha Syed Ruhullah Mehdi Meets Mirwaiz Umar Farooq to Discuss IIOJK’s Political Future

In a rare meeting between two key political figures from different sides of IIOJK’s political spectrum, NC MP Agha Syed Ruhullah Mehdi and APHC leader Mirwaiz Umar Farooq discussed the post-Article 370 situation and the pressing issues facing IIOJK.

National Conference (NC) Member of Parliament Agha Syed Ruhullah Mehdi recently held an hour-long meeting with senior All Parties Hurriyat Conference (APHC) leader Mirwaiz Umar Farooq in New Delhi. The discussion centered around the changing political dynamics in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOK) following the revocation of Article 370, the restoration of statehood, and the release of political prisoners.

Mirwaiz confirmed the meeting, stating, “Yes, he (Mehdi) visited me. He is in Delhi for the Parliament session, and it was a courtesy call to me as the Mirwaiz.” While the two leaders hold different political affiliations, the meeting emphasized their shared concern for Kashmir’s future, particularly in the context of the ongoing political crisis since August 5, 2019, when the Indian government revoked the special status of IIOJK.

Agha Syed Ruhullah Mehdi, a prominent figure within the National Conference, has been outspoken on various issues affecting the Kashmiri people, particularly the youth and the controversial reservation policy. He has previously participated in protests against the policy, which has been a point of contention within Kashmir’s political landscape. Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, as the spiritual leader of the Kashmiri Muslims, has consistently supported movements advocating for IIOJK’s autonomy and self-determination. Both leaders, despite their differing political platforms, have previously found common ground in their opposition to Indian policies in IIOJK.

The meeting also touched on broader issues affecting the Muslim population in India, especially concerns about the reservation policy and its implications on the social fabric of IIOJK. This policy, which has sparked debate and protests, has become a focal point for those who believe it undermines the rights of Kashmiris in their own homeland.

Despite Mehdi’s well-known ties to the National Conference and his political affiliations within India, his engagement with Mirwaiz has stirred controversy within his party. Some NC members have criticized him for potentially legitimizing opponents and engaging with figures from the pro-independence camp. These internal disagreements highlight the sensitivity surrounding discussions related to IIOJK’s political status post-Article 370.

Political observers, however, see the meeting as a significant development, especially given the ongoing uncertainty regarding IIOK’s future. The region is facing the aftereffects of the August 2019 decisions, and many in IIOJK are concerned about demographic changes, the future of political autonomy, and the fate of political detainees.

The meeting between Mehdi and Mirwaiz is being seen as a rare moment of dialogue between individuals who have often been on opposite sides of the political spectrum, and it could signal potential shifts in the IIOJK discourse. As the political landscape remains uncertain, discussions like these could pave the way for more inclusive debates on the region’s future.