'Don't drag me to this level': Ruhullah tells NC on Budgam election campaign

October 20, 2025 by News Desk

Senior National Conference (NC) leader and former minister Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi has responded sharply to comments made by NC’s Budgam candidate, Aga Syed Mehmood, who claimed that Ruhullah would campaign for the party in the upcoming Budgam Assembly by-election.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Ruhullah clarified that his loyalty is guided by his conscience and principles, not by imposed narratives. “My loyalty is to my conscience and principles,” he wrote.

While maintaining respect for his elders within the family, Ruhullah urged them not to undermine his political struggle or misrepresent his stance. “While I hold respect for my elders in my family, I request them not to belittle my fight (our fight). If they can’t comprehend it and be part of it, at least don’t drag me and my struggle to this level,” he said.

His response came shortly after Aga Syed Mehmood told reporters that Ruhullah would take part in campaigning for the National Conference, describing him as “a party man and like my son.”

Ruhullah’s statement underscores growing tension within sections of the party as Budgam prepares for the upcoming by-election.