National Conference Legislators Issue Ultimatum to Omar Abdullah

National Conference Legislators Challenge Leadership

Seventeen legislators from the ruling National Conference held a four-hour gathering in Srinagar to address internal grievances. The group issued a 15-day ultimatum to party president Farooq Abdullah and vice-president omar abdullah to rectify concerns regarding unilateral choices and a dominating coterie culture.

The assembly took place at the residence of party legislator Qaiser Jamsheed Lone in Friends Colony, with several senior figures and an Independent lawmaker in attendance. Participants stated that a joint resolution would be forwarded to the leadership demanding immediate structural corrections within the organization.

Cabinet Expansion Triggers Discontent

The internal friction emerged just days after the Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister expanded the local cabinet, increasing the ministerial positions from six to nine. Numerous lawmakers expressed public frustration over being omitted from the expansion, with roughly a dozen members boycotting a dinner hosted by Farooq Abdullah.

Dissenting members criticized the existence of a kitchen cabinet and advisers who allegedly insulate the leadership from elected representatives. Furthermore, complaints were raised regarding the distribution of ministerial portfolios and a perceived lack of democratic consultation ahead of the administrative changes.

Leadership Response and MP Resignation Plans

Despite the brewing friction, participating politicians explicitly ruled out any current plans to fracture or split the party. The ruling coalition maintains the backing of 50 lawmakers within the 90-member House, where the organization holds 42 seats independently.

Concurrently, party Member of Parliament Aga Syed Ruhullah announced intentions to step down from his parliamentary seat and exit the organization, citing unfulfilled manifesto promises and a failure to advocate for the return of the region's special status. Meanwhile, party leadership confirmed administrative adjustments, noting that Haji Ali Mohammad Sagar will continue serving as general secretary until further notice.

Sources: The Hindu, NDTV, The Times of India.