Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi is a prominent political leader and a member of the Jammu & Kashmir National Conference (JKNC). Born on 12 August 1976 into the influential Aga family of Budgam, he carries a deep legacy of religious and political leadership. His father, Aga Syed Mehdi, was a respected cleric and politician whose life and work left a lasting impact on the region’s socio-political landscape. Ruhullah Mehdi entered the political arena in 2002, successfully contesting the assembly elections from Budgam, a constituency he represented three times. In 2009, he made history by becoming the youngest-ever Cabinet Minister in India, handling key portfolios such as Science and Technology and Animal Husbandry. Throughout his career, Mehdi has been recognized as a voice for inclusive, non-sectarian politics in Jammu and Kashmir. His political trajectory took a sharp turn following the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, when he emerged as a vocal and articulate critic of the decision, frequently questioning the silence of mainstream political parties regarding the region’s status. His outspoken commitment to regional autonomy and civil rights earned him significant popularity, culminating in his resounding victory in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections from the Srinagar constituency. In Parliament, he has been an active legislator, focusing on issues ranging from healthcare and the release of political prisoners to the prohibition of intoxicants. As an advocate for the youth and a proponent of democratic discourse, he has been honored as the “Youngest Indian Leader” by CNN-IBN. His leadership style is characterized by a blend of traditional influence and a modern, progressive stance on governance. Today, he remains a key figure in the NC, dedicated to addressing the grievances of the people of Kashmir and pushing for a more equitable political environment within the Indian constitutional framework.
Education
1992
Secondary Schooling from Tyndale Biscoe School, Srinagar
1994
Higher Secondary Certificate (12th Pass) from Tyndale Biscoe School, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir Board
1998
Pursued Bachelor of Arts (B.A. 2nd Year) from University of Kashmir, Srinagar
Political Journey
2002
Member of Legislative Assembly (Budgam)
2009
Cabinet Minister
2024
Member of Parliament (Srinagar)
Positions Held
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2002Member of Legislative Assembly (Budgam)
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2009Cabinet Minister
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2024 - PresentMember of Parliament (Srinagar)
Election History
| Election | Constituency | Year | Result | Votes | Vote % | Margin |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lok Sabha | Srinagar | 2024 | Won | 357949 | 44.51% | 1,88,258 |
Assets & Liabilities (As per recent Affidavit)
Total Assets
₹ 3.57 Cr
Movable Assets
₹ 57.9 Lac
Immovable Assets
₹ 3 Cr
Total Liabilities
₹ 4.38 Lac
Figures are self-declared in election affidavits and are not independently audited by Peoplenetworth Team.
Major Policies & Initiatives
- Regional Autonomy and Civil Rights: To advocate for regional autonomy and protect civil rights in Jammu and Kashmir
- Healthcare Improvement: To focus on and address healthcare issues in the region
- Political Prisoners' Rights: To advocate for the release and rights of political prisoners
- Prohibition of Intoxicants: To campaign for the prohibition of intoxicants
- Youth Advocacy and Democratic Discourse: To advocate for the youth and promote democratic discourse