'National Conference stands as united and solid wall': Farooq Abdullah downplays internal revolt

The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference is facing a major internal crisis, with growing resentment among party leaders threatening to widen the rift with Chief Minister Omar Abdullah's leadership. Following a controversial cabinet expansion and public criticism from senior leaders, party president Farooq Abdullah is preparing to intervene and hold talks with the dissenting members to prevent a possible split.

Farooq Abdullah appeals for unity amid National Conference crisis

As tensions continue to rise, Farooq Abdullah has sought to project unity within the party, stressing its ability to overcome internal challenges. Reaffirming his confidence in the organisation, he said, "The National Conference stands as a united and solid wall, having weathered countless storms, faced the toughest trials, and overcome numerous challenges throughout its long political history. The real strength of the National Conference lies in its unbreakable bond with the people, its pro-people policies, and its historic struggle for constitutional, democratic, and fundamental rights."

However, his appeal has not yet eased concerns about the growing differences between dissident lawmakers and the Chief Minister's camp. Party insiders and political observers believe the dispute reflects deeper dissatisfaction over decision-making and the distribution of political responsibilities.

Omar Abdullah faces resentment over cabinet expansion

The immediate trigger for the dispute was Omar Abdullah's recent cabinet expansion. The decision to induct some lawmakers while leaving several senior leaders out of the ministry reportedly angered sections of the party, particularly those who felt their contributions had not been recognised.

The resentment has since developed into organised dissent, with a group of MLAs reportedly holding meetings to discuss their concerns. Around 18 MLAs are said to have attended one such meeting in person, while others joined remotely.

The dissident group reportedly claims support from 18 to 25 MLAs and is seeking greater consultation in government decisions, organisational reforms and what it describes as fair representation within the administration.

Meanwhile, CM Omar Abdullah's supporters maintain that the ministerial appointments were based on administrative merit, regional representation and political priorities. They remain hopeful that discussions with dissatisfied members will resolve the differences.

Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi's resignation adds to the crisis

The internal dispute intensified after Srinagar MP Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi publicly announced his resignation from his position and launched a sharp attack on CM Omar Abdullah.

In a pointed message directed at the Chief Minister, Ruhullah challenged him to leave politics in Jammu and Kashmir, saying he would make him step away from state politics. 

Farooq Abdullah's intervention seen as crucial to saving party unity

With the differences becoming increasingly public, attention has shifted to party president Farooq Abdullah. Despite stepping back from active government responsibilities, the veteran leader continues to hold considerable influence within the organisation.

His long political career includes navigating the National Conference through several difficult periods, including the collapse of his government in 1984 and the violence that affected the party during the 1990s.

For both the dissenting MLAs and CM Omar Abdullah's supporters, Farooq Abdullah remains an important figure who could bring the opposing sides to the negotiating table. His proposed meetings in Srinagar are therefore being viewed as a significant attempt to prevent the dispute from turning into a major organisational split.

A senior National Conference leader underlined the importance of his intervention, saying, "The last hope for this party is Jinab Farooq Sahib, whose words are always taken as an order by every small worker to a top party official. So, once he takes the meeting, things will get clear."