Engineer Rashid Released from Tihar Jail: A Political Comeback?
Sheikh Abdul Rashid, well-known as Engineer Rashid and the Member of Parliament from Baramulla, Jammu and Kashmir, made headlines recently when he was granted interim bail by a Delhi court after spending several years incarcerated in a terror funding case. His release from Tihar Jail on Wednesday has raised eyebrows, especially as it coincides with the approaching Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections scheduled for later this month.
Background on Arrest and Charges
Rashid was arrested back in 2019 by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act for his alleged involvement in a 2017 terror funding case. Since then, he has been in custody, becoming a figure of controversy and political debate in Jammu and Kashmir.
Conditions of Release
Following his release, Engineer Rashid is expected to adhere to certain conditions stipulated by the court. These include posting a ₹2 lakh bond and abstaining from discussing the ongoing case with the media. Additionally, the court has postponed its decision regarding his regular bail plea until October 5, giving him a temporary reprieve to engage in the upcoming election campaigns.
Political Stance and Remarks
Upon his release, Rashid wasted no time in declaring his resolve to challenge Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “Naya Kashmir” initiative, claiming that it has failed to resonate with the people of Jammu and Kashmir. He stated emphatically, “I will not let my people down. I take a pledge that I will continue to fight PM Modi’s narrative, which has been completely rejected by the people here.”
Opposition Accusations
Omar Abdullah, vice-president of the National Conference and former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, expressed skepticism about the timing of Rashid’s bail, suggesting that it was strategically granted not for public service but to influence electoral outcomes. Abdullah stated, “He has been granted bail not to work as an MP but to garner votes here. After that, he will be taken back to Tihar jail, leaving the people of North Kashmir without representation.”
Upcoming Elections and Political Landscape
The elections in Jammu and Kashmir are set to unfold in three phases beginning September 18. Rashid, the leader of the Awami Ittehad Party (AIP), has a formidable political history, having previously defeated Omar Abdullah in the 2015 general elections. He remains resolute that his fight transcends mere political power, stating, “My fight is for the people, not for a chair.” This platform resonates strongly with his supporters, especially in the current political climate.
Conclusion
As Engineer Rashid prepares to dive into campaigning, his release from Tihar Jail and the ensuing political rhetoric will inevitably shape the dynamics of the forthcoming Assembly elections. Whether his declarations will translate into electoral success remains to be seen, but it is clear that he is positioning himself as a fierce political contender against the backdrop of Jammu and Kashmir’s complex and evolving political landscape.
