Omar Abdullah Open To Dialogue With Mentor Mian Altaf, Dismisses Aga Ruhullah's Criticism
Refusing to campaign for the NC in the Budgam by-poll, Ruhullah questioned how he could face constituents given the party’s failures: Reports
SRINAGAR: A day after National Conference (NC) Lok Sabha members Mian Altaf Ahmed and Aga Syed Ruhullah publicly criticised his government for alleged governance failures and abandoning its 2024 election promises, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday expressed willingness to engage in dialogue with the former, whom he considers a mentor, while sharply distinguishing him from the latter, whom he dismissed as incomparable.
While responding to the MPs’ public criticisms, the Chief Minister said at a press conference here that he spoke with Anantnag-Rajouri MP Ahmed the previous evening and he told him that all he had said was that he (Abdullah) should exercise caution in his statements, particularly in light of media misrepresentations. “Mian Altaf Sahab, like a fatherly figure, suggested that I should be mindful in my remarks as Chief Minister, much like my father does,” the Chief Minister stated, emphasising his openness to constructive dialogue. He urged the MP to engage in private discussions rather than resorting to public criticism, highlighting the value of direct communication to resolve concerns.
Regarding Srinagar MP Ruhullah’s similar critiques, the Chief Minister dismissed any parallels between him and Ahmed. He remarked, “There is a vast difference--zameen-aasman ka farq (heaven and earth)—between Mian Altaf and Aga Ruhullah.” Speaking in Urdu, he further emphasised, “Kahan Aga Ruhullah, kahan Mian Altaf?” suggesting that Ruhullah’s approach lacked the constructive tone of Ahmed’s advice.
When questioned about Ruhullah’s decision not to campaign for the NC in the upcoming Budgam Assembly by poll—necessitated by Abdullah vacating the seat—the Chief Minister downplayed its significance. “We have a strong roster of leaders to lead the campaign. Participation is voluntary, and no one is compelled to join,” he stated, underscoring the party’s confidence in its campaign efforts despite Ruhullah’s absence.
The Chief Minister voiced frustration over the stalled restoration of J&K’s statehood, a core NC election pledge. “I’ve been hopeful since day one, but with each passing day, those hopes are fading,” he said.
At the 4th Halla Bol Conclave here, Ruhullah, a prominent Shia Aga clan leader, sharply criticised the NC government led by Abdullah and expressed dismay at the Chief Minister’s claim of “not being afraid of the people” on the reservation issue. Accusing the NC of betraying its 2024 election promises to restore J&K’s special status and address public grievances, he highlighted the party’s shift to focusing solely on statehood and its reversal on opposing smart power meter installations.
Refusing to campaign for the NC in the Budgam by-poll, Ruhullah questioned how he could face constituents given the party’s failures.
Ahmed echoed these concerns, urging Abdullah to prioritise governance over rhetoric and address unemployment among educated youth. He criticised the lack of recruitment drives and the Chief Minister’s remarks on smart meters, advising more thoughtful communication. Defending Ruhullah against Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary’s attacks, Ahmed affirmed his (Ruhullah’s) credibility, warning that such criticism would not diminish his standing.
