NC Crisis: Days after cabinet expansion in Jammu and Kashmir, several disgruntled National Conference (NC) MLAs are reportedly unhappy with the conduct of the party's top brass. The rebel MLAs held a meeting on Friday and discussed several issues, including cabinet expansion, party organization, and the functioning of the NC government. As per the reports, the rebel MLAs seek accountability and transparency from Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and other senior leaders.
What Escalated The Row?
The tensions escalated after the Omar Abdullah-led government expanded its cabinet allegedly to create a balance between the young and experienced leaders. However, some of the young MLAs alleged that those close to Abdullah have been included in the cabinet over the elected leaders. The upset leaders, including Mubarak Gul and Abdul Majid Larmi, openly criticized the party.
ALSO READ: INDIA Bloc Nov 1 Rally: 250 CCTV Cameras, Multi-Tier Frisking As Delhi Police Fortify Ramlila Maidan
What Are Their Demands?
As per the reports, they have demanded the removal of Omar Abdullah's advisor and some senior ministers. The group is soon likely to meet party president Farooq Abdullah and discuss the issues with him. "We are not against the party, but it cannot be business as usual. He (the CM) should listen to us and make changes that are in the interest of the party and the government," a rebel MLA was quoted as saying by NDTV.
On being asked about the recent developments, the NC spokespersons and the senior leaders have maintained that the party is united and the leaders have rights to raise their issues.
Worrying Signs For Abdullah ?
While the National Conference, along with Congress and independents, has a comfortable majority in the assembly, a rebellion of a dozen MLAs could destabilize the government. The reports suggest that 24 of the total 41 party MLAs are upset with the cabinet expansion and might seek a revision. The developments could be concerning signs for the Abdullah family, as in 1984, the brother-in-law of Farooq Abdullah, Ghulam Mohammad Shah, had toppled the government.