Jammu Kashmir National Conference (JKNC) candidate from Budgam constituency, Agha Syed Mahmood, on Monday said that senior leader Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi remains loyal to the party and will lead the campaign for the upcoming Budgam bypolls. A sharp retaliation to this came from Ruhullah in no time saying his loyalty remains only to his principles and conscience.
Mahmood, who was declared NC’s candidate for Budgam on Sunday, earlier won from Pattan in 1987 and Beerwah in 1996.
Speaking to reporters, Mahmood said the National Conference played a defining role in Ruhullah’s political journey. “It’s the NC that made him what he is today. His role in the campaign is important, and I believe he will definitely come forward,” he said.He added that he shares a close bond with Ruhullah. “Politics aside, he’s like my own son. We’ve been regularly talking to each other,” Mahmood said.
Dismissing speculation of any rift, Mahmood said Ruhullah’s recent statements reflect the party’s long-held positions on Article 370, Article 35A, and reservation policies. “He belongs to the National Conference and will campaign for the party,” he asserted.Meanwhile, the political temperature in Budgam rose sharply today after senior National Conference leader Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi issued a powerful statement asserting his loyalty to his principles and conscience above all else.
“While I hold respect for my elders in my family, I request them not to belittle my fight — our fight. If they can’t comprehend it and be part of it, at least don’t drag me and my struggle to this level,” Ruhullah said.His statement, seen as both emotional and politically charged, comes just as the Budgam by-election campaign enters its decisive phase. Political observers believe Ruhullah’s words reflect a clear message of independence from any internal or external pressure.
The remarks have sent ripples through political circles, especially within the National Conference, as the party attempts to project unity ahead of the polls.Earlier, NC candidate Agha Syed Mehmood expressed confidence that Ruhullah would eventually join the campaign, calling him “an inseparable part of the party.”
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