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Engineer Rashid, the independent Member of Parliament from Baramulla, returned to his constituency after a five-year absence, sparking a massive rally in his support. The rally, held in Baramulla, saw throngs of supporters, loud cheers, and slogans echoing Rashid's message of seeking justice and demanding a resolution to the Kashmir issue. The event marked Rashid's first visit to Baramulla since his surprise victory over former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections.
Rashid's return was a significant event, underscoring his political influence in the region. The rally showcased the support he enjoys, particularly among the youth, who see him as a symbol of resistance against the Indian government's policies in Kashmir. He utilized the platform to criticize the government's approach to the Kashmir issue, labelling it as a 'drama' and a 'show of strength'.
He accused the Modi government of perpetuating atrocities through the UAPA and other measures, and called for the release of Kashmiris imprisoned in Tihar Jail. Rashid also criticized the PDP, particularly Mehbooba Mufti, for their alliance with the BJP, calling it a betrayal of the people of Kashmir. He asserted that his Awami Ittehad Party (AIP) would be a strong contender in the upcoming Assembly elections, seeking to present a fresh alternative to the voters.
The rally highlighted the complexities of the Kashmir issue and the ongoing political tensions within the region. Rashid's strong presence and message, coupled with the significant turnout, suggest that the upcoming elections could witness a shift in the political landscape of Jammu and Kashmir. His campaign is expected to impact the prospects of mainstream parties, such as the National Conference and the People's Democratic Party, adding to the uncertainty surrounding the election outcome.
Rashid's return and his fiery speeches have re-ignited the debate surrounding the Kashmir issue, focusing on the political, social, and economic challenges faced by the region. The rally served as a platform for Rashid to reiterate his demands for a resolution to the Kashmir issue, while also highlighting the deep dissatisfaction felt by many Kashmiris towards the current political situation.
His message resonated with the crowd, particularly the youth, who see him as a champion of their cause. However, the future of Rashid's campaign and its impact on the upcoming elections remains to be seen. The political landscape in Jammu and Kashmir is complex and constantly evolving, making it difficult to predict the final outcome of the elections.
Source: Calls for justice, barbs at Modi as Engineer Rashid roars at 1st J&K rally. ‘Zulm ka badla vote se’