On October 8, 2024, Sheikh Abdul Rashid, also known as Engineer Rashid and the head of the Awami Ittehad Party (AIP), used the occasion to demand accountability and peace as the counting process of the Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections began. His comments highlighted the region’s specific political environment, stressing that “power is not permanent” and the strategic importance of Jammu and Kashmir, which lies between China and Pakistan.
Engineer Rashid’s Call for Rights and Peace
In his speech, Engineer Rashid stressed that the people of Jammu and Kashmir must be given their rights. "On one side there is China, and on the other side there is Pakistan," he said. "Everyone is watching us. Give the Kashmiri people their rights and let them live." His remarks highlight growing concerns over the region's political representation at the national and international levels.
Rashid specifically addressed the impending visit of External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar to Islamabad for the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit and encouraged the Indian government to take significant steps towards peace in Kashmir. He asked the minister to take advantage of this opportunity to pursue genuine peace measures as well as diplomacy. "He should not mislead everyone into believing that I attended the Shanghai summit. He needs to take some positive steps behind the scenes for peace in Kashmir," Rashid said.
A Bridge Between People and Government
Rashid has a clear idea of what he wants from the future administration in Jammu and Kashmir: it should serve as a link between the local people and the federal government in New Delhi. He demanded that the self-respect and dignity of the citizens come first in any newly established administration. "I urge that whatever government is formed in Jammu and Kashmir, it should serve as a bridge so that our troubles end and people can live with dignity," he said.
A total of 69.69% of votes were cast in the third phase of the assembly elections, taking the voter turnout to 63.88%. Rashid expressed concern about the impact of such results on the political scenario of Jammu and Kashmir, as the initial results seemed to be in favor of the National Conference-Congress alliance.
Engineer Rashid Criticized Local Political Systems
Engineer Rashid, apart from demanding accountability, also attacked local leaders; he particularly targeted National Conference leader Omar Abdullah. Describing Abdullah as "power hungry," he said a united front of all concerned parties is needed to restore statehood in Jammu and Kashmir and meet the needs of the people.
"If they get a majority and there is a delay in government formation... then it is clear that Omar Sahab is very power hungry," Rashid said. Rashid's position highlights the nuanced political dynamics in Jammu and Kashmir. He criticized the current political class, saying that neither any secular nor any community alliance exists, and they do not represent the concerns of the people. They are all power hungry."
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