Sheikh Abdul Rashid Criticizes BJP and INDIA Bloc, Pledges Independent Fight in J&K Elections

Sheikh Abdul Rashid, after being granted interim bail, attacked both BJP and the INDIA bloc for their political strategies regarding Kashmir. Wearing a black band in protest of Article 370's abrogation, Rashid criticized the current political landscape and emphasized his party's intent to contest the upcoming Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections independently.

On Wednesday, Baramulla MP Sheikh Abdul Rashid, known as Engineer Rashid, launched an attack on both the BJP and the INDIA bloc, labeling the ruling party as confrontational and the opposition as backstabbers.

Wearing a black band to protest the 2019 abrogation of Article 370, Rashid, recently emerged from Tihar jail on interim bail, voiced his displeasure with India's political scene. His Awami Ittehad Party (AIP) plans to contest 35-40 seats in the upcoming Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections independently. Rashid criticized both BJP's nationalism and the INDIA bloc's secularism, calling them facades.

Rashid lambasted the BJP for its treatment of Kashmiris and questioned the INDIA bloc's stance. He asserted his long imprisonment reflected his serious challenges, compared to the freedoms enjoyed by PDP leaders. Declaring himself a proud Islamist, Rashid condemned radicalism. He also showed deep concern for Kashmiri detainees and criticized the BJP's claims of popular support for the abrogation of Article 370.

As elections approach, Rashid remains determined to fight for his constituents. Elections are set for mid-September to early October, with results on October 8.

(With inputs from agencies.)