Srinagar: Minister for Health & Medical Education, Social Welfare, and Education, Sakina Itoo, criticized Srinagar Member Parliament and National Conference colleague Aga Ruhullah Mehdi over his participation in a recent reservation protest outside Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s residence, calling it a “cheap publicity stunt”.
Itoo, who is also a member of the cabinet sub-committee reviewing Jammu and Kashmir’s Reservation Policy, criticized Ruhullah’s tactics while responding to the protest in an interview on a local channel, saying, “It’s the wrong way. It is not the right way to go and stand outside the CM’s house for a protest.”
“Does Omar Abdullah have a magic wand that he will wave around and your job will be done? For cheap publicity, you get yourself clicked by the media and then claim that you are trying to pressurize the government,” she said, adding, “what pressure will you put on the government? The government is not under anyone’s pressure; we will do the work that is in our hands without any pressure.”
This comment came amidst growing tensions within the NC, as the party faces increasing divisions over political strategies and leadership.
“The government is doing whatever is in its hands and whatever is possible. We will do everything for the larger good of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. We will leave no stone unturned to help our people. The chief minister Omar Abdullah has already formed a cabinet sub-committee, and it is working. The committee will submit its report soon, and it will be best for all,” Itoo said.
Sakina Itoo’s remarks point to the widening gap between Ruhullah and other NC leaders, signaling deeper fractures within the party as it grapples with ideological differences and public posturing.
Recent developments within the NC have worsened party divisions. Aga Ruhullah, who has led protests demanding political change, continues to clash with the party leadership.
Ruhullah’s actions have sparked a war of words within the NC. CM Omar Abdullah also recently urged Ruhullah to focus on statehood protests in Delhi instead of local issues.
Ruhullah responded firmly, stating that he remains committed to the restoration of Article 370 and statehood, and that he would not shy away from protests and would also seek support of other MPs for it. (With inputs from KDC)
