Ruhullah Mehdi Feels Isolated Within NC After Supporting Student Protest Over Reservation Policy
Srinagar, Apr 15, KNT: Srinagar MP and National Conference leader Aga Ruhullah Mehdi has revealed growing distance between him and his party following his support for student protests against the new reservation policy in Jammu and Kashmir.
Speaking during a Twitter Space interaction, Ruhullah expressed frustration over what he described as a “communication breakdown” with the party leadership. “Earlier, my views were not only welcomed but shaped party direction. That changed after the Assembly elections,” he said.
The shift, according to him, became evident after he stood in solidarity with students protesting outside Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s residence last December. The demonstration, which was peaceful in nature, opposed changes to the reservation structure that drastically reduced the open merit quota.
“I didn’t call for that protest,” Ruhullah clarified. “It was a gathering of students concerned about their future. I went there to listen and lend my voice, not to lead a rebellion. If that is now considered betrayal, so be it.”
He accused some within the party of painting his participation as disruptive, a label he firmly rejects. “It was never about disrupting governance. It was about standing with the youth who felt unheard,” he said.
Since then, Ruhullah claims, the party has gradually distanced itself from him. “From being asked to contest parliamentary elections, to having my ideas dismissed altogether — the change has been stark,” he noted.
Despite feeling side-lined, Ruhullah said he chose not to openly protest the party’s decisions, understanding its need to engage diplomatically with the central government. “I didn’t want anyone to say that I spoiled the chance of restoring statehood. That’s why I stayed quiet,” he explained.
But the silence has come at a personal cost. “I feel consumed by this moral responsibility I carry for my people. I want to speak for them, work for them — within or outside the party. But the space to do that is shrinking.”
Ruhullah dismissed claims that his actions were politically motivated. “Some say I’m acting out a script. But I’m accountable only to my conscience — and to God,” he said firmly.
The December protest that sparked this divide was in reaction to a policy shift that reserved 70% of seats for various categories, leaving only about 30% for open merit candidates. The move triggered anxiety among students and job aspirants who fear limited opportunities under the new system.
In response to public backlash, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah had acknowledged the concerns and stated that a Cabinet sub-committee had been constituted to review the policy and ensure a balanced resolution.
Meanwhile, Ruhullah remains firm in his position — willing to stand alone if needed, but unwavering in his commitment to what he believes is right. “Call it protest or anything else. For me, it was a duty — and I have no regrets.”
