Kashmir Impulse Desk
Budgam, Nov 3
Muhammad Ashraf Mattoo, father of teenager Tufail Mattoo, who was killed during the 2010 unrest in Kashmir, on Tuesday expressed support for National Conference MP Aga Syed Ruhullah, describing him as a source of hope in his prolonged struggle for justice.
Addressing a gathering organised by Ruhullah in Budgam, Mattoo said he had continued to pursue justice for his son for years, but the case remained pending in court.
“I am still fighting for justice. I don’t consider Omar Abdullah and his clan as humans. I see a ray of hope in Aga Ruhullah,” he said.
Tufail Mattoo was killed on June 11, 2010, after being hit by a tear gas shell fired by security forces in Srinagar.
Mattoo questioned the role of Omar Abdullah, who was chief minister at the time, alleging that his government had failed to ensure justice despite having the authority and opportunity to intervene.
He asked why he should approach the chief minister for justice when the administration led by him had failed to address the matter during the period in question.
Recalling his meeting with Ruhullah, Mattoo said the MP had embraced him and expressed solidarity with his family, a gesture that strengthened his belief that Ruhullah understood the suffering of families still awaiting justice.
He described Ruhullah as sincere, honest and committed to raising public concerns, particularly those of marginalised sections.
“He is the voice of the voiceless. He raises the questions of people who have no voice,” Mattoo said.
He added that Ruhullah’s commitment to public issues extended beyond ministerial positions and political power.
The gathering also witnessed a symbolic political gesture when Ruhullah handed his resignation from the National Conference to Mattoo, asking him to forward the letter to party president Farooq Abdullah.
Speaking to reporters after receiving the letter, Mattoo said he would not personally visit the party office but would send the resignation to the NC leadership.
The decision to entrust the letter to Mattoo came as Ruhullah announced his separation from the party, accusing its leadership of abandoning electoral promises and failing to defend the political and constitutional rights of Jammu and Kashmir.
Ruhullah, who represents the Srinagar parliamentary constituency, also announced his resignation from the Lok Sabha at the gathering.
