Jammu, Oct 31 (KNO): Jammu and Kashmir Minister Javed Ahmed Rana on Saturday said that if National Conference MP Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi decides to leave the party, he would do so alone and his departure would have no impact on the organisation.
Speaking to reporters in Jammu, Rana, according to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), dismissed reports of internal differences within the National Conference following the recent Cabinet expansion, asserting that the party remained united and strong.
“If Aga Sahib decides to leave, he will leave alone. Why would his departure affect the party? The organisation will remain united,” he said.
Rana said celebrations were being held across Jammu and Kashmir over the Cabinet expansion and that he had not witnessed any resentment within the party.
Addressing reports that 18 NC legislators had met amid alleged dissatisfaction over the Cabinet expansion, Rana questioned the basis of such claims.
“Has any press note been issued by them? Has anyone received an official statement from their side? I do not think there is any concrete evidence to support such claims,” he said.
He added that meetings among party colleagues should not be interpreted as signs of discord.
“If members of an organisation meet or sit together, such gatherings should not be given a different colour to create unnecessary controversy,” he said.
Reaffirming the party’s unity, Rana said the National Conference remained strong under the leadership of Farooq Abdullah, while the government led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah was functioning firmly.
“The National Conference is strong, the government under Omar Abdullah is strong, and the party organisation under Dr Farooq Abdullah stands united like a rock,” he said.
Rana said those anticipating divisions within the party would be disappointed, maintaining that the NC continued to remain firmly united.
On the Cabinet expansion, he acknowledged that some legislators who were not inducted into the Council of Ministers might feel disappointed.
“Every MLA wants to become a minister, but the available positions are limited. Naturally, there may be disappointment among those who could not become ministers,” he said.
Expressing optimism about the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood, Rana said he hoped the process would be completed soon, allowing for the induction of more ministers.
“Insha'Allah, statehood will be restored very soon and more ministers will also be appointed,” he added—(KNO)