National Conference leader and Rajya Sabha member Chaudhary Muhammad Ramzan on Monday said that comments made by Aga Ruhullah Mehdi reflect a difference in approach, not opposition to the National Conference.
Speaking to Kashmir News Service (KNS), Ramzan said that internal discussion and debate within a party should not be seen as disloyalty. He said that Aga Ruhullah and the Chief Minister may have different ways of addressing issues, but both remain committed to the party.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
“Aga and the Chief Minister have different approaches to solving problems. This does not mean he is against the National Conference. If he were against the party, he would have resigned,” Ramzan said.
He added that they meet regularly during Parliament sessions and often discuss important parliamentary matters together. “We meet in Parliament almost every day and share ideas. He is a young and passionate leader with a long political future. May Allah grant him good health and help him achieve his goals,” he added.
On Powers of the Elected Government
Speaking about administrative powers in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, Ramzan said the elected government still does not enjoy full authority. He said that most powers continue to remain with the Lieutenant Governor’s office.
He stressed the need for clear business rules to define the responsibilities of the LG, the cabinet, and elected representatives. “We raised this issue in Parliament and asked what the purpose of elections was if the elected government and MLAs still have no real powers,” he said.
On PM Modi and Statehood
Responding to questions about Omar Abdullah praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Ramzan said that the Prime Minister’s constitutional position naturally commands respect.
He said the National Conference government received a strong public mandate, but full powers promised after delimitation have not yet been restored. “Delimitation has taken place, elections were held, but statehood has still not been restored. This remains our top priority,” he said.
On Safety of Kashmiris Outside J&K
Ramzan also condemned incidents of violence and mistreatment against Kashmiri residents outside the Union Territory. He said such behaviour against J&K youth and workers is unacceptable.
He added that the Union Home Minister has directed all state governments to ensure fair and respectful treatment of people from Jammu and Kashmir, and that action has already started against those involved in such incidents.
On Prisoners and Reservation
Talking about J&K prisoners lodged outside the UT, Ramzan said many are detained in minor cases and lack basic facilities. He said the Home Minister has assured legal help, medical care, and access for families.
On the issue of reservation, Ramzan said the National Conference fully supports it and had clearly mentioned it in the party manifesto. He said a Cabinet Sub-Committee prepared its report following Supreme Court guidelines.
“The UT cabinet approved the report and sent it to the Lieutenant Governor. Once it is signed, the reservation policy will be implemented,” he said.
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