Srinagar, October 31: A group of National Conference legislators has reportedly prepared a memorandum seeking changes in the Cabinet, a stronger political campaign for restoring Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood and Article 370, and a fixed timeline for fulfilling the party’s 2024 election promises.
According to reports citing sources, the document was drafted during a meeting of 18 legislators at the residence of Lolab MLA Qaiser Jamsheed Lone on Friday. It was reportedly sent to senior party leaders, though the National Conference had not confirmed receiving it.
The reported demands include removing Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s adviser Nasir Aslam Wani and replacing ministers who have completed two years in office. The legislators also sought action on understandings reportedly reached during the party’s June 3 meeting at Dachigam.
At that meeting, legislators had questioned the functioning of Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary and ministers Javid Rana and Satish Sharma. Sharma was subsequently dropped in the recent reshuffle, while Rana lost several portfolios. Choudhary retained Roads and Buildings, along with Industries and Commerce.
A legislator associated with the group claimed its objective was to reform the party and that it enjoyed support beyond those who attended Friday’s meeting. That claim has not been independently established.
Meanwhile, NC Kashmir Provincial President Showkat Ahmad Mir rejected suggestions of a rebellion. He described the gathering as an internal discussion where legislators shared concerns and considered approaching the leadership through senior colleagues.
Mir acknowledged that some members were disappointed over Cabinet representation but said the Chief Minister had limited ministerial positions available. He maintained that differences within the party should be addressed through discussion and did not amount to a challenge to its leadership.
