Srinagar: Sakeena Itoo, the Minister for Health and Medical Education, has dismissed a recent protest led by National Conference leader Aga Ruhullah Mehdi outside Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s residence. Itoo described the protest as a “cheap publicity stunt” and criticized Ruhullah’s approach.
In an interview with a local news channel, Itoo expressed her disapproval of Ruhullah’s tactics, saying, “It’s not the right way to protest outside the CM’s house.” She questioned the effectiveness of such actions, asking, “Does Omar Abdullah have a magic stick that will solve your problems? You’re just trying to get media attention and claim you’re pressuring the government.”
Itoo emphasized that the government is not influenced by protests and will continue to work on issues within its control without outside pressure.
This exchange comes at a time of rising tensions within the National Conference party, which is experiencing divisions over its political strategies and leadership. Ruhullah’s protest has sparked a heated debate within the party, especially with Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. Recently, Abdullah urged Ruhullah to focus on statehood protests in Delhi rather than local matters. In response, Ruhullah stated that he is more committed to restoring Article 370 than to statehood, which he believes is an empty promise.
The internal conflicts became more apparent when Ruhullah led a protest last December regarding Jammu and Kashmir’s reservation policy. This protest attracted support from opposition leaders and hundreds of students from the Open Merit category. Ruhullah’s growing defiance has drawn sharp criticism from other party leaders, highlighting the ongoing struggles within the National Conference.
As the situation develops, it remains to be seen how these internal rifts will affect the party’s future and its approach to key issues in Jammu and Kashmir.
