Ruhullah’s decision to leave NC not surprising: Javid Dar

Srinagar, Nov 5: Jammu and Kashmir Finance Minister and senior National Conference leader Javid Ahmad Dar on Thursday said he had anticipated MP Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi’s exit from the party, claiming the former NC leader had made up his mind to quit well in advance, while expressing disappointment over the language used against the party leadership.
Dar said Ruhullah, who had been his companion for nearly 15-16 years, had generally maintained a certain standard of language during their interactions, and he was personally disappointed to see the MP’s recent speech on stage.
“I have said from the first day that he has decided to leave the National Conference. However, I did not expect him to use such language against the leadership,” Dar said, adding that criticism is welcome but should remain within certain limits.
The minister said there was no issue with Ruhullah leaving the party or criticising its leadership, but maintained that differences should be expressed in a dignified manner.
Dar also accused certain quarters of diverting public attention from the government’s work on social reforms and the challenges faced by the elected dispensation, saying the government is running under difficult circumstances.
Referring to the powers of the elected government in Jammu and Kashmir, minister Dar alleged that decisions taken by the Council of Ministers were subject to the Lieutenant Governor’s approval, with some decisions being withheld. Every decision taken by the Council of Ministers goes to the LG. Whatever suits him is cleared, while those that do not suit him are held back, he alleged.
Citing the reservation issue, minister Dar said there were several other instances where the elected government faced constraints, and urged people to understand the circumstances under which it was functioning.
Terming it unfortunate that Ruhullah, who had been associated with the party for nearly 20 years, had decided to part ways, Dar said his future political course would become clear in due course. (KNS)