Diplomat Correspondent
Jammu, (DD): In a dramatic turn of events during the Legislative Assembly proceedings, National Conference (NC) MLA Bashir Ahmad Veeri openly defied his party’s leadership, accusing the chief whip and his deputy of running the House with a “dictatorial” approach.
Veeri, who represents the Bijbehara Assembly segment, was visibly frustrated after being denied the opportunity to speak during the session. In an open act of defiance, he declared that the whip’s authority “wouldn’t work in the House,” sparking thunderous applause from the opposition benches. His remarks exposed internal discord within the NC, raising questions about growing discontent among its ranks.
The incident quickly escalated as Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, NC chief whip Mubarak Gul, and Veeri left the Assembly chamber for a private discussion. After about 7-8 minutes, they returned, but the details of their conversation remained undisclosed.
Veeri’s outburst is being seen as a rare public challenge to party discipline, hinting at internal differences within the NC. While the leadership has not officially commented on the incident, political observers believe it could signal deeper rifts within the party as it navigates ongoing political challenges in Jammu and Kashmir.(DD)