Engineer Rashid Criticizes BJP and INDIA Bloc, Eyes 35-40 J-K Assembly Seats

Baramulla MP Sheikh Abdul Rashid, also known as Engineer Rashid, criticised both the BJP and the INDIA bloc. He accused the ruling party of direct confrontation and the opposition of backstabbing. Wearing a black band to protest the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, Rashid expressed his dissatisfaction with the current political scenario after being released from Tihar jail on interim bail.

Rashid declared that his Awami Ittehad Party (AIP) plans to contest 35 to 40 seats in the upcoming Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections without forming alliances. "I will only align with my inner self," he stated. He condemned both the BJP's nationalism and the INDIA bloc's secularism as false constructs used to undermine genuine ideals.

Criticism of Political Parties

Rashid criticised the BJP for sacrificing Kashmiris for political gains and questioned the INDIA bloc's unclear stance. "Modi ji hits upfront while INDIA bloc hits from behind," he said at a press conference. He also challenged the BJP's claims of nationwide support for the abrogation of Article 370, citing recent Lok Sabha election results as evidence of a disconnect.

On his black band protest, Rashid remarked, "When I went in on August 2, I had a state, Article 370, and Article 35A. Now, upon my release from jail, I find there is neither a state, nor Article 370 or 35A, only a charge sheet." He dismissed accusations from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) that he serves as a proxy for the BJP, asserting that he had endured five-and-a-half years of imprisonment while PDP leaders enjoyed their freedom.

Condemnation of PDP

Rashid criticised the PDP for forming an alliance with the BJP after the 2014 assembly polls. "They became ministers and formed a government. Who do they think they are? The people know the truth and have rendered their verdict," he said. He emphasised that his imprisonment was due to more significant reasons than those alleged by Mehbooba Mufti and Omar Abdullah.

Identifying himself as a proud Islamist, Rashid distanced himself from radicalism. "No Islamist can be radical. I love the people of India and believe in Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam," he asserted. Speaking about Kashmiri detainees, including separatist figures like Asiya Andrabi, Rashid expressed deep concern for their treatment. "They are our Sita. If you want to bring hearts closer, is it right to imprison our Kashmiri daughters?" he questioned.

Rejection of BJP's Claims

Rashid rejected the BJP's assertions that people were pleased with the removal of special status. "If that were true, the government wouldn't have to bury separatists like Syed Ali Shah Geelani in the dead of night or imprison thousands," he stated. The AIP leader lamented being excluded from discussions between the government and political parties, noting that even groups like Aam Aadmi Party and Shiv Sena had been consulted.

He pointed out that while many political leaders had their Public Safety Act (PSA) revoked, he was subjected to prolonged imprisonment after being summoned over the phone. Rashid was granted interim bail on Tuesday to campaign for the Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections until October 2. He faces charges under various sections of the Indian Penal Code and Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA), including waging war against the country and sedition.

In his closing remarks, Rashid extended solidarity with Kashmiri Pandits, acknowledging their struggles in returning to their homeland. "I feel their pain. Innocent lives lost, regardless of religion or nationality, is a tragedy. One lakh Kashmiris have also died, and their stories often go unheard," he said.

Earlier, while stepping out of Tihar jail, Rashid vowed to fight Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Naya Kashmir narrative. Talking to reporters outside the jail, he also attacked National Conference (NC) leader Omar Abdullah and PDP president Mehbooba Mufti for destroying Kashmir. He said he would continue to fight for the people of the region.

Targeting Omar Abdullah, whom Rashid defeated in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls, he said he was literally dying in Tihar for five-and-a-half years while the NC leader was hiding in London. As Rashid prepares for the upcoming elections, he remains resolute in his commitment to representing his constituents amidst a tumultuous political landscape.

Elections are scheduled for Jammu and Kashmir's 90-member legislative assembly in three phases from September 18 to October 1. The results will be declared on October 8.