SRINAGAR: Aga Ruhullah Mehdi, the National Conference Member of Parliament for the Srinagar Lok Sabha constituency, stated on Sunday that Jammu and Kashmir has progressively lost its autonomy over the years, with its political leadership failing to secure the restoration of these powers.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that Mehdi, speaking to reporters in Baramulla, clarified that his observations were not aimed at any specific individual or political party but rather represented a general assessment of the political landscape in the region.
He asserted that Jammu and Kashmir has consistently seen a decline in its powers, referencing the loss of statehood and the abrogation of Article 370. According to Mehdi, the region has not experienced political gains since the outset of its integration process.
Questioning the approach taken by the National Conference after it assumed power, Mehdi alleged that the party had altered its stance on the rights that were diminished following the events of 2019. He highlighted that the electorate had placed their confidence in the National Conference during the 2024 Assembly elections, based on the party’s assurances regarding the restoration of these lost rights.
Mehdi further emphasized that his demands are confined to the commitments made to the people during election campaigns, which he stated are also the party’s pronouncements, not solely his own. He pointed out that Kashmiris had trusted the National Conference with the expectation of regaining rights lost after 2019.
The MP also raised concerns about why elected representatives and party members were unable to voice their objections if they perceived a deviation from the party’s commitments by its leadership. He stated, “We are not slaves of the party. We can raise genuine questions if the party is not on the track.”
Mehdi questioned the current emphasis on the restoration of statehood, suggesting it was not the sole component of the National Conference’s political agenda. He recalled statements from the National Conference’s vice president, who had previously critiqued those who focused exclusively on statehood, indicating that the political objectives extended beyond this singular issue.
The parliamentarian stressed that political parties are accountable to the public and must remain receptive to inquiries from their supporters. He added that raising concerns about unfulfilled promises should not be misconstrued as opposition to the party.
Mehdi’s objective, he explained, is to ensure that the issues and rights pledged to the people during the election campaign continue to be a central part of the political discourse in Jammu and Kashmir.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
