Javid Hassan Baig Reaffirms His Support for Omar Abdullah Amid National Conference Developments (iMG: x)
Srinagar: Senior National Conference leader and Baramulla MLA Javid Hassan Baig has reaffirmed his commitment to Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and the National Conference, declaring that political positions may change but loyalty to the party and its leadership must remain steadfast.
His remarks come amid reported discontent within the party following the recent Cabinet expansion and growing political discussion over the allocation of ministerial portfolios. Baig has also appealed to Srinagar MP Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi to reconsider his reported plans to leave the National Conference and explore the possibility of resolving differences with the party leadership.
Speaking to Dynamite News about the recent Cabinet expansion and the dissatisfaction reportedly expressed by some party leaders over ministerial appointments, Baig maintained that the decision rested with Chief Minister Omar Abdullah.
He indicated that the Chief Minister was best placed to assess the government's administrative requirements, evaluate the suitability of potential ministers and take decisions in the broader interests of governance.
Addressing the reported concerns involving MLA Abdul Majeed Larmi and MLA Mubarak Gul, Baig refrained from commenting on their individual grievances, maintaining that the Cabinet formation process fell within the Chief Minister's decision-making authority.
The developments have brought renewed attention to internal discussions within the National Conference, particularly over political representation, ministerial responsibilities and expectations among senior leaders following the reshaping of the government.
Making his position unequivocal, Baig said his association with Omar Abdullah and the National Conference would not be determined by whether he received a ministerial position or by changes in the political landscape. His remarks underscored his view that political office is temporary and should not take precedence over longstanding party relationships, ideological commitment and collective responsibility.
Baig's intervention comes at a time when the party is navigating reported differences following the Cabinet expansion. His emphasis on loyalty and respect for the Chief Minister's authority reflects a preference for maintaining organisational cohesion rather than allowing disagreements over appointments to deepen internal divisions.
However, the broader political challenge for the National Conference will be to ensure that its leadership decisions are accompanied by effective communication with party legislators and sustained attention to their concerns.
Beyond the questions surrounding ministerial appointments, Baig called on the newly inducted ministers to discharge their responsibilities with dedication, urgency and a clear focus on public welfare.
He stressed that the effectiveness of the expanded Cabinet would ultimately be measured by its performance on the ground, particularly its ability to address citizens' concerns and fulfil the aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
His remarks placed governance and public accountability at the centre of the discussion, suggesting that ministerial appointments must translate into tangible improvements in administration and public service delivery.
For the new ministers, the immediate priorities include responding to local grievances, improving the delivery of government services and ensuring that public expectations remain central to administrative decision-making.
The emphasis on performance also highlights the distinction between the political significance of Cabinet formation and the practical responsibilities that follow once ministers assume office.
Baig also addressed reports that Srinagar MP Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi was considering resigning from both the National Conference and his parliamentary seat.
Appealing directly to Ruhullah, Baig urged him to reconsider the reported move and seek a resolution to any differences with the party leadership through dialogue and mutual understanding.
He expressed hope that the Srinagar MP would take a considered decision in the larger political interests of the party and its supporters, rather than bringing his association with the National Conference to an end.
Baig's appeal reflects an effort to prevent disagreements from developing into a more consequential organisational split. It also underscores the importance of retaining senior leaders whose political standing and public engagement contribute to the party's broader presence in Jammu and Kashmir.
The reported possibility of Ruhullah's departure has added another dimension to the political discussion surrounding the National Conference, particularly as the party manages the aftermath of the Cabinet expansion. No final outcome should be assumed regarding the reported resignation plans unless confirmed by Ruhullah or through an official announcement.
Baig's intervention has highlighted the competing demands facing the National Conference: maintaining unity within its political organisation while responding to concerns over leadership decisions and ministerial representation. His position favours reconciliation, urging leaders to address disagreements through discussion rather than severing longstanding political ties.
At the same time, the Cabinet expansion has renewed attention to the relationship between party leadership, elected representatives and the distribution of responsibilities within the government.
For Omar Abdullah and the National Conference, managing these internal dynamics will be important as the government works to deliver on its commitments to the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
The political significance of the current developments will depend not only on whether differences are resolved but also on whether the party can maintain organisational cohesion while keeping governance and public accountability at the forefront.
Baig, meanwhile, has made his position clear: political positions are temporary, party loyalty should endure beyond individual appointments, and disagreements should be addressed through dialogue wherever possible.
