SRINAGAR — A delegation of Members of Parliament visiting north Kashmir’s Kupwara district on Thursday expressed concern that the continued incarceration of Engineer Rashid, a Lok Sabha member representing Baramulla, is weakening the connection between New Delhi and the Kashmir Valley.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that the delegation, comprising MPs Umesh Bahubhai Patel and Sudhakar Singh, along with other political figures from various states, visited Mawar Langate, the native village of Engineer Rashid, to offer condolences to his family and show solidarity.
During their visit, the MPs engaged with Engineer Rashid’s family, local party leaders, and members of the public. Speaking to the media, the visiting parliamentarians stated that a significant portion of the Indian population empathizes with the challenges faced by the people of Jammu and Kashmir. They emphasized that sustained democratic dialogue and genuine engagement are crucial for achieving lasting peace and reconciliation in the region.
MP Sudhakar Singh, representing Bihar, highlighted the extensive suffering experienced by the people of Kashmir and stressed the importance of their voices being heard with sincerity and respect. He acknowledged Engineer Rashid’s consistent advocacy in Parliament for the political and human rights issues pertaining to Jammu and Kashmir.
Mr. Singh further suggested that the current administration’s approach, characterized by a lack of meaningful engagement with the populace of Jammu and Kashmir, is exacerbating feelings of alienation. He specifically called for the immediate release of Engineer Rashid, arguing that his continued detention hinders the vital link between the national capital and the valley, preventing him from serving his constituents who have placed their trust in him.
The parliamentary delegation also met with individuals from diverse backgrounds, assuring them that the people of India are not adversaries of Kashmiris. They underscored the necessity of upholding all commitments and agreements that form the foundation of the relationship between New Delhi and the people of Jammu and Kashmir, both in letter and in spirit.
The MPs reiterated their stance on the imperative of dialogue, reconciliation, and democratic participation to address the aspirations and grievances within Jammu and Kashmir.
The Chenab Times News Desk