Excelsior Correspondent
Srinagar, Dec 29: National Conference (NC) senior leader and Rajya Sabha member Chaudhary Muhammad Ramzan today said that Agha Syed Ruhullah Mehdi is opposed to the Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s decisions and not the party.
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The MP said Ruhullah’s criticism is directed at the Chief Minister’s policies and approach, not at the party. “He has not spoken against the NC. If he was against the party, he would have resigned. He criticises Omar, not the party. His approach is different,” he said.
Ramzan said that he regularly met Ruhullah in Parliament and they often discuss issues together. He said that internal debate is part of democratic functioning.
“He is a young leader with passion. He has to play a long political innings. May Allah give him health and help him fulfil his aspirations,” he said.
On administrative powers in the Union Territory, Ramzan said the elected Government still does not have full authority. He added that most powers remain with the Lieutenant Governor’s (LG) office, and that clear business rules are needed to define the roles of the LG, the Cabinet, and elected representatives.
“We raised this issue in Parliament, asking what was the purpose of elections if the elected Government and MLAs still don’t have powers,” he said.
Responding to questions about CM Omar praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Ramzan said the Prime Minister’s position naturally invites respect.
The MP said that the elected Government received a strong mandate, but full powers promised after delimitation are yet to be restored. “Delimitation has happened, elections were held, but Statehood has not been restored yet. This is our biggest priority,” he said.
On the issue of violence and attacks on Kashmiri residents outside the UT, Ramzan condemned mistreatment of J&K youth and workers. He said the Home Minister has instructed all State administrations to ensure fair and respectful treatment of people from Jammu and Kashmir, and that action has already begun against those involved in violence.
On prisoners lodged outside the UT, the NC leader said many are held in minor cases without proper facilities. He said the Home Minister assured legal assistance, medical support, and family access for such prisoners.
Regarding reservation, Ramzan said his party supports it and had included it in their manifesto. He said a Cabinet Sub-Committee submitted its report under Supreme Court guidelines. “The UT Cabinet approved it and sent it to the LG. Once signed, reservation will be implemented,” he said.
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