JAMMU, November 4: Online searches for Srinagar MP Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi increased by more than 5,000 per cent across India after he announced on November 3 that he was parting ways with the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (NC) and intended to resign from the Lok Sabha.
Google Trends data showed that Jammu and Kashmir recorded the highest search interest, followed by Bihar, Delhi and Uttar Pradesh.
People searched for him using different names, including Aga Ruhullah, Ruhullah Mehdi, Aga Ruhullah Mehdi and Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi.
The sudden rise in searches came after Ruhullah addressed a gathering at Behisht-e-Zehra Park in Budgam. He spoke for around 80 minutes at an event organised to mark the 26th death anniversary of his father, Aga Syed Mehdi.
During his address, Ruhullah announced his decision to leave the NC after a prolonged disagreement with the party leadership. He accused party president Farooq Abdullah and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah of failing to fulfil key election promises, including the restoration of statehood, protection of local rights and the party’s stand on Article 370.
He also rejected speculation about political horse-trading and hinted at the possibility of forming a new political party in Jammu and Kashmir. He urged young people to join a movement for the rights and dignity of the region.
