NC MP to skip all-party diplomatic trip

SRINAGAR: National Conference MP Mian Altaf Ahmad will not join an all-party delegation visiting foreign countries to present India’s stand on terrorism and ongoing Operation Sindoor, citing religious obligations, a close aide said Thursday.

According to his aide, Ahmad will be attending the annual Baba Nagri Urs — a prominent religious event in Wangath village of Ganderbal district — honouring Hazrat Mian Nizamuddin Kiyanvi. Held in early June, the ceremony draws thousands of devotees from across J&K.

Though his party had recommended his name and govt included him in the delegation, the MP has formally communicated his inability to participate, the aide said, leaving J&K’s governing party at risk of being unrepresented in the diplomatic mission.

But NC functionaries appear unaware of Ahmad’s decision to skip the trip. Party spokesperson Tanveer Sadiq repeated Wednesday and Thursday that the MP would travel with the team.

Ahmad, who represents Anantnag–Rajouri in Lok Sabha, was slated to visit Spain, Greece, Latvia, and Russia as part of a group led by DMK MP Kanimozhi Karunanidhi. He was one of three J&K politicians selected for the govt-backed mission, along with Ghulam Nabi Azad and Ghulam Ali Khatana.