JKNC MP Aga Syed Ruhullah resigns from party and Lok Sabha seat

Jammu and Kashmir National Conference leader and Srinagar Lok Sabha MP Aga Syed Ruhullah resigned from his party and parliamentary seat on Tuesday, accusing top leadership of betraying public trust. Making the announcement during a public gathering in Budgam, the 48-year-old Shia cleric stated that he was setting himself free from the party.

Resignation Details

Mr. Ruhullah submitted his resignation letter to the Lok Sabha Speaker with immediate effect and stated that his decision was voluntary. He announced that his resignation documents will be forwarded through Muhammad Ashraf Mattoo, whose teenage son Tufail Mattoo was killed in 2010 during street protests. In his letters and speech, Mr. Ruhullah criticized Dr. Farooq Abdullah and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for misusing him for electoral gains and reneging on 2024 poll promises regarding free electricity, gas cylinders, and job reservations.

Future Plans and Reactions

Hinting at launching a new political party, Mr. Ruhullah announced a district-wise campaign starting from Jammu's Kathua and Kashmir's Kupwara. He stated that the struggle must focus on restoring Article 370 and constitutional guarantees rather than settling for statehood alone. In response, a National Conference spokesperson dismissed the resignation as a manifestation of self-obsession and moral bankruptcy, pointing out that Mr. Ruhullah had previously served as a minister and MLA on a party ticket for decades.

Context

The abrogation of Article 370 and Article 35A in 2019 fundamentally altered the constitutional status and political landscape of Jammu and Kashmir. Tensions between regional political parties and central authorities have remained high as local leaders navigate the path between seeking the restoration of statehood and fighting for regional autonomy.