AIP urges parties to support MP Rashid

Awami Ittehad Party (AIP) has called upon the political parties to express their solidarity with Baramulla MP and party chief Engineer Rashid, who in jail since 2019 in a money laundering case.

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The Baramulla MP began a hunger strike inside Tihar Jail last week to protest against being denied permission to attend the Budget session of Parliament. According to his party, Rashid has since been shifted to a hospital as his health has deteriorated due to the prolonged hunger strike. “Incarcerated MP Er Rashid’s hunger strike has now entered its ninth day, and his health is rapidly worsening,” said AIP chief spokesperson Inam Un Nabi.

“He represents Kashmir’s largest parliamentary constituency and his presence in Parliament is crucial,” he said, adding that despite his worsening health, Rashid continues his strike, simply demanding the right to represent his people. “This is a call for justice, democracy and humanity,” said Inam.

Issuing an appeal to the civil society, human rights organisations and political parties across the spectrum, Inam said, “Everyone should raise their voices for Er Rashid’s immediate release. His unjust incarceration is not just a political issue but a democratic and humanitarian crisis.”

Inam referred to Rashid as an “innocent voice of the people,” adding that while PSAs on other Valley leaders were revoked, Er Rashid was booked under UAPA and continues to be in jail.