Why Engineer Rashid Chose Jamaat for the J&K Election
As Jammu and Kashmir prepare for its upcoming assembly elections, Engineer Rashid has declared that his party, the Awami Ittehad Party (AIP), has formed an alliance with former members of the Jamaat-e-Islami, calling it “the need of the hour.” Engineer Rashid, who was recently released on bail from Delhi’s Tihar Jail after being arrested in a 2017 terror funding case, believes that this alliance will pave the way for a peaceful future in Kashmir through dynamic leadership.
“Jamaat’s Participation Should Be Welcomed”: In an exclusive interview with India Today TV, Baramulla’s independent MP Engineer Rashid said that Jamaat-e-Islami’s participation in the electoral process should be seen positively. “While I have many differences with them, we agree that Kashmiris need a leadership that will work for a peaceful future for the region,” he stated.
Questions on Jamaat’s Islamist Ideology and Separatist Links: When asked about Jamaat-e-Islami’s Islamist outlook and its ties with separatist elements, Rashid remarked, “I believe every Muslim should be proud to follow fundamental Islamic principles, just as every Hindu should be proud of their religious principles. But extremism is different.”
He added that Jamaat has contributed significantly to the education and social sectors and has made sacrifices. He also pointed out that if the Indian government and Home Minister Amit Shah can negotiate with 6,000 militants in Nagaland, questions should not be raised about engaging with Jamaat in Kashmir.
Criticism from Regional Parties: Engineer Rashid’s release from jail ahead of the Jammu and Kashmir polls has been met with criticism from regional parties like the National Conference (NC) and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), which have accused the BJP-led central government of trying to weaken their vote share. Responding to these accusations, Rashid said, “If these were established political parties, they wouldn’t fear me. The truth is that NC, PDP, and Sajad Lone have destroyed Kashmir. They’ve become puppets of Narendra Modi.”
Election Dates: The Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections will be held in three phases – on September 18, September 25, and October 1, with the results being declared on October 8.
