Reservation Debate: Ruhullah Urges Focus on Students’ Future Over Ruhullah Urges Focus on Students’ Future

SRINAGAR, Dec 26: Member of Parliament Aga Ruhullah Mehdi emphasized the primacy of student reservation over personal considerations or political reactions during a recent protest, asserting that the issue held greater importance than his presence or criticism directed at him. His remarks came in response to National Conference leader Salman Sagar, who accused Ruhullah of siding with opposition forces and undermining the party by participating in the December 23 protest advocating for a rationalized reservation policy in Jammu and Kashmir.

Defending his actions, Ruhullah reiterated that the focus should remain on the welfare of students and their future. “The most significant concern that day was reservation—students, their reservation, and their future. I am not important; no individual is. No other issue matters as much,” he said.

The protest stirred controversy within the political sphere, with Sagar labeling the participants as adversaries of the National Conference. Ruhullah, however, dismissed such allegations, underscoring the nonpartisan intent behind his involvement. When questioned about the Government’s commitment to reviewing the reservation policy within six months, Ruhullah deflected the query, suggesting the matter be addressed directly with the authorities. “The Government will issue it. You can talk to the Government,” he stated succinctly.

Responding to claims by Apni Party leader Altaf Bukhari, who alleged that the protests were orchestrated, Ruhullah delivered a sharp rebuttal. “Not everything is staged, as Altaf Bukhari imagines. He himself is a planted entity, and he thinks everything operates that way,” Ruhullah remarked, targeting Bukhari’s credibility.

Earlier, Ruhullah chaired a significant review meeting on Centrally Sponsored Schemes in Srinagar, with attendance from most National Conference members except for a few MLAs stationed in Jammu. The meeting, reflecting his continued engagement in legislative responsibilities, was seen as a counter to the internal and external criticisms surrounding his recent actions.

Ruhullah’s stance on the reservation issue has highlighted the broader concerns over the policy’s implications for students in the region. While his protest sparked debate within political and public domains, Ruhullah maintained that addressing these pressing issues is paramount, transcending party allegiances and personal attacks.