Experienced Eidgah MLA being considered for Cabinet berth or Speaker post; Sources cite seniority, acceptability and strong Srinagar connect
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Srinagari CNI NEWS: Amid discussions over the proposed expansion of the Jammu and Kashmir Council of Ministers, senior leader and Eidgah MLA Mubarak Gul has emerged as a possible consensus choice within the ruling Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (JKNC), party insiders said.
According to party insiders as per news agency JKNS, there is a view within the organisation that senior leaders with long political and grassroots experience should be given preference, particularly in Srinagar, over first-time legislators.
Gul, they said, enjoys broad acceptability among party workers and leaders and is being considered for either a Cabinet berth or the post of Speaker of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly.
Insiders also said that Eidgah MLA Mubarak Gul has been discussed at the top leadership level for the two positions. However, MLA Nazir Ahmad Gurezi and another leader from North Kashmir are also reportedly being considered for the Speaker’s post.
Gul began his political career as a municipal councillor in 1976 and was first elected as an MLA from Eidgah in 1983. He later served as an MLC, Advisor to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Speaker of the J&K Legislative Assembly.
Following the 2024 Assembly elections, Gul was appointed Pro-tem Speaker of the Legislative Assembly.
He has represented the Eidgah constituency six times, including his latest victory in the 2024 Assembly elections.
Party insiders believe Gul’s inclusion in the Council of Ministers would not disturb internal equations and could strengthen representation of Srinagar in the government.
They also argue that Downtown Srinagar, with its historical and political significance, requires strong representation at the Cabinet level, and maintain that Gul’s experience, public connect and acceptability make him a strong contender.
However, a final decision regarding the Cabinet expansion or Speaker’s post is yet to be announced and would rest with the party leadership. CNI NEWS