Srinagar, Nov 06, KDC: Amid speculation over internal differences within the National Conference, party legislators on Friday dismissed reports of a breakaway faction, saying their concerns had been conveyed to the top leadership and assurances had been given that the issues would be addressed.
National Conference MLA Nazir Ahmad Gurezi said the legislators had approached party president Farooq Abdullah and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to raise their concerns and seek their resolution, maintaining that their recent meetings were not aimed at forming a separate group.
Speaking to reporters after a meeting with the party leadership and other legislators at the Gupkar residence, Gurezi said the legislators remained committed to the National Conference and intended to resolve their concerns through the party’s established leadership.
“We are legislators of the National Conference. Whenever we have issues, we take them to our party leadership. A few days ago, we sat together at one place, but social media portrayed it as if a separate party had emerged from the National Conference. There was no such group,” he said.
He said the legislators had placed their political and other concerns before Farooq Abdullah and the Chief Minister, who assured them that appropriate steps would be taken.
“There were certain issues which we brought before the honourable Chief Minister and Farooq Sahib. They have assured us that whether these are political issues or other matters, some will be addressed immediately while others will be resolved gradually,” Gurezi said.
Meanwhile, NC MLA Bashir Ahmad Veeri indicated that the leadership could take some decisions within the next 24 to 48 hours. He made the remarks after the meeting with Farooq Abdullah and Omar Abdullah, suggesting that the legislators were expecting an early response to some of the concerns raised.
Another party legislator, Majeed Larmi, also reaffirmed his loyalty to the National Conference, dismissing any possibility of leaving the party.
“I would die, but never leave the party,” Larmi said, adding that everything had been sorted out following the interaction with the leadership.
The developments come against the backdrop of discontent reported among a section of NC legislators following the recent expansion and reshuffle of the Council of Ministers. Around 16 MLAs had reportedly sought an interaction with the party leadership, triggering speculation about internal differences and the possible emergence of a separate faction.
However, the legislators maintained that their consultations were aimed at highlighting organisational and governance-related concerns rather than challenging the party leadership.
The meeting assumes significance as the National Conference leadership seeks to address the grievances and maintain unity within the ruling party. The assurances given by Farooq Abdullah and Omar Abdullah, along with indications of possible decisions within the next 24 to 48 hours, are expected to determine the course of the developments.
The legislators have indicated that they intend to pursue their concerns within the party, while awaiting concrete action on the assurances extended by the leadership. (KDC)
