Srinagar Lok Sabha MP Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi has reiterated his decision to resign from the National Conference (NC) and his parliamentary membership on November 3, 2026, deepening the political rift within the ruling party in Jammu and Kashmir.
Speaking to reporters in Budgam on October 31, Ruhullah said the resignation announcement made earlier would be carried out on the death anniversary of his father, Aga Syed Mehdi. A public gathering is scheduled at Behisht-e-Zehra Park in Budgam on that day.
Editorial Insight
Key Highlights
Important points readers should notice.
Issue/Event: Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi reaffirms his plan to resign from the National Conference and Lok Sabha.
Location: India.
Authority/Organisation: Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi and the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference.
Action Taken: Ruhullah announces November 3 as the date for his proposed resignation and rejects any involvement in horse-trading.
- Impact: The announcement adds to political uncertainty and internal differences within the ruling National Conference.
Ruhullah has accused the National Conference leadership of failing to pursue commitments made during the election campaign. His criticism centres on the restoration of Article 370, constitutional rights, reservation policy and the release of prisoners.
He has questioned the party’s political direction after it came to power, arguing that its position on these issues does not reflect the expectations created during the elections.
The MP also sought to distance his decision from the separate internal dissent involving National Conference legislators following the recent Cabinet reshuffle. He maintained that his disagreement was based on political principles and public commitments rather than dissatisfaction over not receiving a government or party position.
Editorial Analysis
Why This Matters
Ruhullah’s announcement is significant because he is the elected MP from Srinagar and has been a prominent voice within the National Conference on Article 370 and constitutional issues. His departure, if formally completed, could create a political challenge for the party and raise questions about its relationship with leaders who disagree with its governing strategy. The development also highlights the tension between electoral promises and the political choices a party makes after forming a government. For voters in Jammu and Kashmir, the debate concerns political accountability, representation and the future direction of the region’s constitutional demands.
Amid speculation about possible political manoeuvres in Jammu and Kashmir, Ruhullah said he did not support horse-trading and wanted the elected National Conference government to complete its full five-year term.
His proposed resignation could become a significant political development for the party, although its wider impact will depend on whether other leaders follow him and how the party leadership responds.
As of October 31, Ruhullah has announced his intention to resign; the formal submission of his resignation is still pending.
