Srinagar, Oct 13: Citing the incomplete fulfillment of promises and commitment to uphold his principles over political expediency, MP Srinagar and National Conference leader Agha Ruhullah on Monday said that he will not take part in campaigning for the party in the upcoming Budgam Assembly bypolls.
Speaking with Kashmir News Service (KNS), Ruhullah said that while the party will ultimately decide on the candidate, he sees no reason to actively campaign under the current circumstances.
He added that his engagement with voters has always been guided by trust, accountability, and the delivery of commitments rather than party pressure.
Ruhullah, who has represented the Budgam Assembly constituency multiple times and has a long-standing history with the National Conference, expressed disappointment that promises made during the last Assembly tenure have not been implemented.
“If the party wants me to go in front of people, there are a few points I want to see immediately. Only after that will I consider my participation,” he said, adding that his decision is based on principle and not political strategy.
Recalling his previous election campaigns, Ruhullah said his responsibility was always towards the institution he worked for and the people who trusted him with their votes.
Ruhullah questioned the party about follow-up actions on prior commitments, including the manifesto and other promises to constituents. “I asked them, what work did you do on the Assembly? What commitments did you make for yourselves? Until these are addressed, why should I go in front of people?” he said.
On speculation regarding NC fielding outsider on Budgam assembly seat, Ruhullah said that he will exercise his right as a voter independently. “Whoever wants to contest from here, let them contest. I have a vote. I am the owner of my vote. I will make my decision and work with the people,” he said, adding that his commitment is to letting constituents decide their representatives rather than blindly following party directions.
Ruhullah also said that the conditions under which he might reconsider campaigning are concrete action on issues like Cabinet decisions on reservation and fulfillment of commitments made to the constituency.
“If I see serious intention from the party to act on these issues, then I will evaluate my participation. Until then, I cannot involve myself in any campaign,” he added.
He also said that his political principles and ideological commitments have always guided his actions. “I have followed the principles of politics. That is what I want to do. I do not want to break my principles and break my commitments. I promised people that I would support them only if commitments made were honored. I will not leave that promise for anyone,” Ruhullah said.
Speaking on the autonomy of voters in Budgam, Ruhullah said that they are the true owners of their votes. While he may provide advice if asked, he will not dictate or influence voting decisions, he added.(KNS)
