27 Jun. 24: Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister and Democratic Progressive Azad Party (DPAP) chief, Ghulam Nabi Azad, has called on the Centre to permit Engineer Rashid to take his oath as a Member of Parliament. Rashid, who has been incarcerated since 2019 on terror-funding charges, recently secured a significant victory over former J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah in the Baramulla constituency as an Independent candidate.
In a statement, Azad emphasized the importance of acknowledging Rashid’s mandate and enabling him to fulfill his parliamentary duties. “As Engineer Rashid secured a decisive victory in the Lok Sabha polls with overwhelming public support, the government should acknowledge the mandate and allow him to take the oath. His constituents in the four districts of Kashmir deserve representation without delay. If the law permitted his candidacy, it should equally permit his full participation in parliamentary proceedings,” Azad stated.
Azad highlighted the prolonged distress faced by Rashid’s family and supporters, noting the dedicated efforts of Rashid’s sons, who campaigned on his behalf and secured his electoral victory. He urged the government to consider the public’s trust in the Constitution and facilitate Rashid’s release to take his parliamentary oath.
Rashid’s victory has stirred significant public interest and debate, with many calling for his immediate release to serve his constituents.
