SRINAGAR: Reacting to the bail granted to Er Rashid, Omar Abdullah, former Chief Minister of the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir and Vice President of the National Conference, expressed his concern over the political implications of the decision, stating that “the bail has been granted just to fetch votes from the people of Kashmir, not to serve them.”
“We were aware that somehow it would happen. I feel for the people of Baramulla, as this bail has not been granted to serve the people of Baramulla or represent them in Parliament. He has not been given bail to attend Parliament as a Parliamentarian and work for the people. Instead, it has been granted to fetch votes from the people of Kashmir,” Omar Abdullah told reporters, as per news agency Kashmir Dot Com, after attending a workers’ meeting at the residence of Srinagar Parliamentarian Aga Syed Ruhullah in Budgam district.
“After this, he will have to return to Tihar Jail, and the people of North Kashmir will be left without representation again. How voters will react and the implications for them remain to be seen,” he said.
Omar Abdullah also stressed Mehbooba Mufti’s stance on Er Rashid, stating that she has “clearly stated that Er Rashid is working on the dictations of the BJP.” Mufti raised questions about the source of funds being used by AIP candidates, and Abdullah added, “Let’s see if AIP can answer these queries. We will fight, and our appeal is to voters not to split their votes in this election, as the BJP has been continuously conspiring.”
Warning of the BJP’s plans, Abdullah pointed out,“The Home Minister has clearly said in a press conference that they will form a government with AIP, PC, and other parties. So, if people want to help the BJP form the next government, then let them support these parties.”
The release of Er Rashid, allowing him to campaign, has shaken the political dynamics in Kashmir ahead of the elections. Omar Abdullah is contesting the elections from two key constituencies, Budgam and Ganderbal, further intensifying the electoral battle.
Er Rashid, chief of the Awami Ittihad Party (AIP), has been in Tihar Jail under charges related to a terror-funding case. His bail and subsequent freedom to campaign are seen as a significant shift in the political landscape of J&K. (KDC)
