AIP flays denial of bail to MP Rashid to attend Parliament session

The Awami Ittehad Party on Saturday condemned the denial of bail to Lok Sabha MP from Baramulla, Engineer Rashid, to attend the ongoing Parliament session, terming it as a grave violation of democratic principles.

In a statement, AIP chief spokesperson Inam Un Nabi said the session, which was particularly significant due to its focus on constitutional debates, excluded a “constitutionally elected representative from Jammu and Kashmir raising serious concerns about the government’s approach toward democratic norms.”

“This is a blatant attack on democracy. Denying Baramulla MP the right to represent his people during a debate on the Constitution is not only undemocratic but also ironic,” he said, adding, “The Constitution guarantees representation and barring an elected representative undermines the values being discussed.”

Nabi emphasised that such moments are meant to strengthen democracy by ensuring all voices are heard. “Preventing an MP from J&K, a region already grappling with trust deficit, from participating in this debate highlights the government’s disconnect between its democratic promises and ground realities,” he said.

Reiterating its commitment to democratic values, AIP demanded immediate corrective measures to ensure all elected representatives can fulfill their constitutional duties. “The Constitution is the cornerstone of our democracy and sidelining an MP during this critical debate is a disservice to the nation’s democratic fabric,” the statement said.