The Awami Itehad Party (AIP) has appealed to the Government of India (GoI) for the release of its president, Engineer Rashid, who is an MP from Baramulla in north Kashmir.
This request comes ahead of the upcoming Parliament session scheduled for November 25. Rashid has been detained in Tihar jail since August 2019 after being arrested by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) in connection with a terror funding case. Rashid made history by winning the 2024 Lok Sabha elections for the Baramulla constituency from jail.
His sons, Abrar Rashid and Asrar Rashid, had launched an emotional campaign for him, urging people to vote for him for his release. AIP Chief Spokesperson Inam Un Nabi described this electoral success as a significant moment in India's democratic process and a testament to the people's unwavering faith in Rashid’s leadership.
“It has been the desire of the people of north Kashmir since 2019 that their issues be represented by Engineer Rashid in Parliament, Nabi said. “Although he narrowly missed victory in 2019, finishing in second place, he made history in 2024 by winning while still in Tihar Jail,” Nabi said.
Nabi said the mandate is not symbolic but a reflection of the people's will. He said the Government of India must respect this democratic mandate by ensuring his release before the Parliament session begins. Nabi stressed the importance of Rashid’s presence in Parliament. “His participation would enhance discussions and provide a vital platform for addressing the aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir,’’ the AIP leader said. “As a grassroots leader and advocate for human rights and justice, his ongoing incarceration sends a negative message and undermines the democratic principles of the nation," he added.
The AIP has called on civil society, political leaders, and human rights organisations to support their demand for Rashid’s release. With the Parliament session approaching, attention turns to whether the Centre will respond to Rashid’s release.