MP Declares Ongoing Struggle for Constitutional Protections
Syed Aga Ruhullah Mehdi, a Member of Parliament representing Srinagar for the National Conference, stated on Saturday that his efforts to secure reservation and restore constitutional rights for Jammu and Kashmir remain active. Speaking to reporters during a book launch ceremony in Srinagar, Ruhullah emphasized that the mandate given to him by voters is still being pursued with unwavering commitment.
Ruhullah articulated that the struggle for equitable reservation policies is a continuous endeavor. "The fight for reservation is still going on. I am fighting for reservation," Ruhullah affirmed. He further identified the comprehensive restoration of constitutional rights and protections for the region as his paramount objective, describing it as the foundational battle. "The biggest fight is for the constitutional rights and protections of our state. That fight is still going on," he added, underscoring the deep-seated nature of this demand.
The MP highlighted his sustained engagement with various segments of the populace, particularly student groups who have been vocal advocates for these issues. He referenced recent social media communications to demonstrate his continued solidarity and leadership, noting that he had tweeted a few days prior to inform his students that he remained "on the streets" with them, symbolizing his active presence in their struggle.
Ruhullah recalled past instances of collective action, stating, "Last time, they needed me. I was ahead of them. I will continue to be ahead of them. But they need to be brave," thereby emphasizing the critical need for sustained activism and courage among the younger generation to press for their demands effectively. His remarks positioned him not just as a legislator but as a frontline participant in the movement for justice and constitutional integrity for Jammu and Kashmir.
Government Criticized Over Tariffs and Broken Promises
During his address, Aga Ruhullah Mehdi launched a sharp critique of the current government, specifically targeting a reported hike in electricity tariffs. This immediate concern was presented alongside broader apprehensions regarding governmental accountability and a perceived erosion of ethical standards within public life.
Unfulfilled Promises on Reservation
The MP also recalled previous, concerted attempts to address the critical issue of reservation through official channels, highlighting a history of public agitation met with insufficient governmental response. He noted that following significant protests held outside the Chief Minister’s residence, a sub-committee was indeed formed to examine the matter and propose solutions. However, Ruhullah stated with clear disappointment that the recommendations emanating from this committee ultimately did not yield any tangible or satisfactory results for the affected communities. "After our protest outside CM residence, a sub-committee was formed and the results did not come," he recounted, illustrating a pattern of official inaction despite public pressure. He further added that attempts to organize additional protests were made as recently as the previous year in an ongoing effort to advance the cause of reservation.
Erosion of Political Principles and Accountability
Beyond specific policy failures and unfulfilled promises, Ruhullah expressed profound concern over what he described as a broader decline in political integrity and character. He leveled accusations against the J&K National Conference, asserting that the party had made significant commitments before elections only to subsequently abandon them once in power. "The political character is missing. There is no character in our politics," he declared, asserting that an even more formidable battle facing the political landscape is the pervasive erosion of fundamental political principles and values. This critique extended beyond a single party, suggesting a systemic issue impacting the credibility and effectiveness of governance in the region.
Call for Youth Engagement in Political System
In a powerful appeal, Aga Ruhullah Mehdi urged the younger generation to actively engage with and take control of the political system. His call was framed as a vital step towards helping to restore principles, values, and character to public life, which he believes have been significantly diminished. He positioned his ongoing efforts, including the fight for reservation and constitutional rights, as part of a larger, essential movement aimed at revitalizing political ethics and ensuring accountable governance.
Ruhullah's message to the youth was not merely an invitation to participate but a challenge to lead, to infuse the political sphere with renewed integrity and purpose. He emphasized that the future of Jammu and Kashmir, and the restoration of its constitutional protections, hinges significantly on the active and principled involvement of its younger citizens. By engaging directly with the political process, the youth, he argued, could become the driving force behind a much-needed transformation, ensuring that political discourse and decision-making are once again guided by strong ethical foundations.
The statements were made on Saturday, August 23, 2026, according to the reporting by Syed Rizwan Geelani for Greater Kashmir. Ruhullah’s comprehensive remarks, delivered on the sidelines of a book launch ceremony, underscore his continued and multifaceted focus on both specific legislative demands, such as reservation, and the overarching imperative of restoring constitutional protections and political integrity for Jammu and Kashmir.