Sheikh Abdul Rashid, often known as Engineer Rashid, has become a prominent figure in Jammu and Kashmir politics. Despite his success in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, allegations have been made against him by political parties, calling him a proxy for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Rashid, however, firmly denies these claims, stating that those making such accusations should feel ashamed. He claims to be the only mainstream leader who has faced real persecution from the ruling party.
Rashid’s Victory and Public Discontent
Rashid believes that his victory in Baramulla during the Lok Sabha elections is a reflection of the people’s frustration with the Modi government’s “Naya Kashmir” initiative. He points out that the people of Jammu and Kashmir continue to feel alienated, especially after the abrogation of Article 370. According to Rashid, his success shows that the residents are rejecting the government’s approach.
Standing Against the Modi Government’s Vision
While speaking at various press conferences, Rashid has not held back from criticizing the current government’s policies. He says that the Prime Minister’s vision of a “New Kashmir” is unacceptable to the people, who remain steadfast in their commitment to protecting their rights and identity. Rashid also highlighted that the central government’s moves, including the revocation of Article 370, have only widened the gap between Kashmiris and the rest of India.
Criticism of Omar Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti
Engineer Rashid has not just targeted the BJP; he has also criticized Jammu and Kashmir’s former chief ministers, Omar Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti. He accused them of failing the people, especially in the aftermath of Article 370’s abrogation. In his view, both leaders have been ineffective in standing up for Kashmir’s interests. Rashid sarcastically commented that Omar Abdullah could neither become Gandhi nor Subash Chandra Bose, while Mehbooba Mufti failed to become Razia Sultan or Aung San Suu Kyi.
Rashid’s Experience in Tihar Jail
Engineer Rashid’s political journey hasn’t been easy. He emphasizes that, unlike other political figures, he was the only mainstream leader jailed in Tihar during the abrogation of Article 370. In contrast, Omar Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti were kept in more comfortable facilities. Rashid uses this experience to argue that he has been a real victim of the BJP government, and this sets him apart from other leaders in the region.
Accusations of Terror Funding
In 2019, Rashid was arrested by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) on allegations related to terror funding. However, he was granted interim bail to campaign for his party, the Awami Ittehad Party (AIP), during the 2024 elections. Rashid sees his arrest as another example of the central government’s attempts to silence him, and he maintains that he has always fought for the rights of the Kashmiri people.
People’s Rejection of Naya Kashmir
Engineer Rashid argues that the people of Jammu and Kashmir are not willing to accept the idea of “Naya Kashmir” as promoted by the central government. According to him, the government’s policies have brought more harm than good to the region. Rashid’s criticism of both the government and local political leaders indicates that he sees himself as a true representative of the people’s aspirations.
A Warning for Future Collaborations
Engineer Rashid has also warned that any collaboration between local leaders and the central government will likely lead to further disadvantages for the people of Jammu and Kashmir. He believes that aligning with the government would only make things worse for the region, and he urges the public to stay vigilant and continue standing up for their rights.