Srinagar MP Aga Ruhullah Mehdi Quits Parliament and JKNC
Srinagar MP Aga Ruhullah Mehdi quits Parliament and JKNC over unfulfilled poll promises, including Article 370 restoration.
In a dramatic political turn, the Srinagar Lok Sabha MP, Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi, has officially announced his resignation from both his parliamentary seat and the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (JKNC). The announcement was made on a day of deep personal significance—the 26th death anniversary of his father—drawing a massive crowd of supporters to the Behesht-e-Zehra Park in Budgam.
A Principled Exit Over Unfulfilled Promises
The resignation marks a public rupture between Mehdi and the JKNC. The MP alleged that the party failed to act upon or fulfill the promises made during the election campaign. By stepping down, Mehdi has brought simmering internal party tensions into the spotlight, suggesting a significant rift over the party's direction and accountability.
Mehdi specifically pointed to several key issues that remained unaddressed, including:
- The restoration of Article 370.
- The release of specific prisoners.
- The overall safeguarding of people's rights.
Rejecting 'Horse-Trading' Allegations
Amidst the political vacuum created by his exit, speculations regarding "horse-trading" or opportunistic political maneuvering began to surface. However, Mehdi has categorically rejected these claims. He maintained that his decision is rooted in principle and a sense of duty toward the electorate rather than personal gain or external inducements.
Supporters Hail the 'Sacrifice'
The atmosphere at Behesht-e-Zehra Park was one of staunch loyalty. Supporters gathered to hear the MP's decision, with many viewing his resignation as a selfless act for the benefit of the public. One local from Wahipora, speaking to the media, emphasized that Mehdi's stature in politics makes his decision inherently correct in the eyes of his followers.
"He speaks for us. If he were speaking for his own personal interests, we would not support him. But this man gave up a monthly salary of 3 to 3.5 lakh rupees, walked away from the highest house of parliament in India, and made such a huge sacrifice for our sake."
The Road Ahead
The formal process of his resignation is set to coincide with the anniversary events on November 3. By walking away from the prestige and financial benefits of a parliamentary seat, Mehdi has positioned himself as a critic of the current political establishment in the region, claiming that his move is an act of accountability to the people he represented.