Is Omar Abdullah on His Way Out? Cracks in NC, Unease in Congress, Frustration With Centre Deepen – Alfaaz – The Words

Alfaaz – The Words Desk

Srinagar: The Omar Abdullah–led government appears to be facing its most testing moment yet, with discontent surfacing not just within the National Conference (NC) but also among its ally the Congress. Open criticism from senior leaders and the Chief Minister’s own candid remarks about his future in office have sparked speculation over whether the government is headed for a shake-up or a possible early exit.

At the 4th Halla Bolle Conclave in Srinagar, NC MP Mian Altaf Ahmad Larvi publicly questioned the government’s performance, lamenting that “no meaningful political or developmental progress has taken place in J&K since this government assumed office.” Urging Omar Abdullah to “introspect and focus on governance rather than rhetoric,” the senior leader drew attention to mounting unemployment, delayed recruitments, and mishandled public issues such as power metering and civic services.

NC MP Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi, who already is at odds with the party leadership on many issues, went a step further, challenging the government’s credibility and intent. Referring to Abdullah’s recent comment, “I’m not afraid of the people”, Ruhullah said it “revealed a worrying disconnect between the leadership and the people.” He accused the party of diluting its pre-election promise of restoring the rights of Jammu and Kashmir’s citizens, saying the government had now “reduced its fight to a mere slogan of statehood.”

In what many see as a rare moment of candour, Omar Abdullah himself appeared to acknowledge the mounting pressures. Speaking to India Today, Omar remarked, “If things continue the way they are, it is unlikely I will be in this office when the term of this government ends.” The statement is being widely read as a sign of frustration over the Centre’s inertia on statehood restoration and pending administrative clearances.

Adding to the turbulence, Congress leaders have also voiced growing disquiet. AICC General Secretary Shahnawaz Chaudhry warned that the Congress “may reconsider its alliance with the NC if inefficiencies persist,” while senior leader Irfan Hafiz Lone echoed the need for stronger coordination and accountability.

As internal dissent deepens and alliance tensions rise, questions are mounting over Omar Abdullah’s future as Chief Minister, and whether the cracks within his government are too deep to mend.