Srinagar- Member of Parliament Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi on Friday issued a sharp rebuttal to criticism from some National Conference (NC) leaders, urging them to“direct their political energy where it is actually needed” rather than targeting him.

Speaking to reporters after visiting Hari Parigam in Awantipora to condole the family of Crime Branch photographer Javid Ahmad-killed in the recent Nowgam blast-Ruhullah said senior NC figures should have displayed the same courage against the central government that they are now showing towards him.

He said that the Chief Minister must“set ego aside” and prioritise the mandate given by the people.“Omar Abdullah should avoid personal attacks and fight for what he received votes for,” he said.

The MP spent time with the bereaved family, assuring them that he would raise the issue at all relevant forums and push for justice for every affected household.

Ruhullah renewed his call for a thorough and independent investigation into the Nowgam blast, questioning the manner in which the ammunition material was transported and stored.“Why was such sensitive material handled in an unprofessional way? Why was it kept inside a police station? And how were civilians, including the tailor and the Naib Tehsildar, present there? Every angle must be examined so that the truth comes out,” he said.

He urged the administration to extend compensation to all victims, including civilians and officials who were injured or killed.“Whoever has suffered in this blast deserves compensation. The government must ensure justice reaches every affected family,” he added.

He emphasised that the fight against terrorism has been a collective struggle.“People from every community-Muslims and non-Muslims-have sacrificed. Javid Ahmad's death is also part of that fight.”

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