Jailed Awami Itehad Party (AIP) leader and MP Engineer Rashid’s hunger strike has entered its third day as he demands the right to take part in parliamentary proceedings. Awami Itehad Party (AIP) has launched a campaign from Sopore, calling for his immediate release.
Chief spokesperson of AIP Inamnun Nabi told THE WEEK that Rashid’s health has fallen due to the hunger strike.
“He doesn’t even, take water,” he said. “Since his arrest in 2019, he has developed diabetes, hypertension and lost weight.” Nabi said they fear for his safety.
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He also added it is ironic that despite getting an invite from the President of India to attend the budget session, he has not been granted permission by the court.
“The NIA has been making excuses to keep in detained,” Nabi said. “He (Rashid) represents north Kashmir in Lok Sabha and he has the right to attend the Parliament and plead on behalf of the people in Parliament.”
He said the hearing for his bail plea is listed for tomorrow and they are hopeful that relief will be granted to him.
Rashid was arrested by NIA on charges of money laundering and ever since he has been languishing in jail.
Senior AIP leaders, including MLA Langate Sheikh Khursheed, Vice President Advocate G N Shaheen, Parveez Ahmad Bhat, DDC Member Muzaffar Ahmad Dar, District President Abdul Qayoom, Ajaz Ahmad Lone, Syed Uzair, Block President Zaingeer Syed Ilyas and organiser Tariq Wani, have joined the campaign for relief to Rashid.
MLA Langate Sheikh Khursheed, Rashid’s brother, has criticised the National Conference (NC) for abandoning its manifesto and betraying the public. He slammed NC leaders for failing to address basic issues in Sopore, such as drinking water shortages and frequent power cuts. He claimed that while people suffer in harsh winter conditions, NC MLAs have remained absent and indifferent.
The campaign for Rashid’s release is gaining momentum with supporters demanding his release. As his hunger strike continues, pressure is mounting on authorities to allow him to take part in Parliament, a right he insists is crucial for representing the people.
