The Delhi High Court has allowed Engineer Abdul Rashid, a Member of Parliament and leader of Awami Itehad Party (AIP), to attend the second part of the fourth session of the 18th Lok Sabha—from March 26 to April 4—while staying in judicial custody.
Rashid was elected as an MP from the Baramulla Parliamentary constituency in the 2024 general elections while in jail.
He is currently in Tihar Jail, facing charges under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) in an alleged terror funding case.
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) arrested him in 2019, but he has always denied the charges, calling them politically motivated.
AIP’s chief spokesperson, Inam Un Nabi, welcomed the court’s decision and thanked the judiciary for upholding democracy.
“We are grateful to the honourable court for allowing Engineer Rashid to perform his parliamentary duties despite the challenges,’’ Nabi said.
“This decision strengthens trust in democracy and justice. We also appreciate our legal team, led by senior advocate N. Hariharan and advocate Vikhyat Oberoi, for their dedicated efforts.”
According to the court’s order, Rashid will be taken from jail to Parliament under police escort.
He will be placed under Parliament security and allowed to carry out his duties.
However, he will not be allowed to talk to the media or use any communication devices.
Nabi said that this ruling protects the democratic rights of North Kashmir’s voters, ensuring their voice is heard in the country’s top law-making body.
Rashid is an important political figure known for his strong views on Kashmir and his demand for restoration of autonomy the Jammu and Kashmir had enjoyed under Article 370. He has been also strong advocate of human rights.
He has carved a place for himself in Kashmir’s contested political space and was elected twice to the J&K assembly from Langate in Kupwara in north Kashmir.
He was released from jail temporarily by the court last year to campaign for his party in the assembly elections held in September and October last year.
However, the AIP failed to impress the voters as the party, despite contesting several seats, managed to win only one—Langate. The seat was won by Rashid’s brother, Sheikh Khursheed.