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Engineer Rashid, the newly elected Baramulla MP and leader of the Awami Ittehad Party (AIP), has vehemently refuted accusations of being a 'vote-divider' leveled against him by the National Conference (NC) and the People's Democratic Party (PDP). In an exclusive interview with India Today TV, Rashid asserted that his fight is not about gaining power or political positioning but rather about restoring the rights and dignity of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
Rashid pointed out that while he secured over 200,000 votes, it is the NC and PDP who have actually split his vote base. He confidently stated that had he contested from South Kashmir, he would have secured victory there as well. However, he emphasized that his mission is larger than any personal ambition, focusing on the immense responsibility he bears to restore the rights and dignity of the people.
He drew a stark contrast between his own experiences and those of other political figures, highlighting the hardships he endured while imprisoned for five years compared to the luxurious treatment received by NC/PDP leaders during their detention at the SKICC. This comparison further fueled Rashid's argument that his fight is driven by a genuine desire to improve the lives of the people and not by personal political gain.
Rashid also addressed the evolving political landscape of Jammu and Kashmir, stating that voting and separatism are not interconnected and that realism is key. He emphasized that the recent decision of the people to break the boycott and cast their vote demonstrates the changing dynamics, as even Omar Abdullah lost by a significant margin of over 200,000 votes.
The article concludes by reiterating Rashid's unwavering commitment to his mission of restoring rights and dignity, contrasting his experiences and motivations with those of the NC and PDP. His outspoken stance and focus on the larger good within the context of the evolving political landscape in Jammu and Kashmir present a compelling narrative for those seeking to understand the complexities of the region and its future.
Source: Engineer Rashid on 'vote-divider' charge: My fight is towards biggest goal