Ruhullah's exit will not affect National Conference, says Javed Rana
Jammu and Kashmir Minister Javed Rana dismissed speculation of a rift within the National Conference following Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi's planned resignation.
Jammu and Kashmir Minister Javed Rana on Saturday asserted that the National Conference remains strong and denied speculation that Srinagar MP Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi's planned exit would affect the party.
Rana responded to questions regarding Mehdi's decision to resign from the party and his Lok Sabha seat on November 3. He stated that if Mehdi decides to part ways, he will do so alone and questioned why it would affect the party.
The Minister described the government under the Chief Minister as robust and said the party organisation under Dr Farooq Abdullah stands firm. Rana attributed reported discontent to the limited number of ministerial positions available after the recent cabinet reshuffle.
Rana said there is no real resentment and that many MLAs simply wish to become ministers. He expressed hope that statehood will be restored soon and more ministers will be appointed.
JKNC Kashmir Provincial President Showkat Ahmad Mir acknowledged that some members expressed concerns following the cabinet expansion, describing these as part of the party's internal democratic process. He said claims of 27 members being involved were blown out of proportion and fueled by the BJP.
Jammu and Kashmir Janata Dal (United) President G M Shaheen said the situation was inevitable because the party failed to include certain key individuals in the cabinet. Shaheen assessed that the government will not survive.