Abrar Rashid, son of Engineer Rashid, has recently welcomed the judiciary’s decision to permit his father’s participation in the Budget Session of Parliament, characterizing it as a “momentous development.”
He underscored the widespread approval among the people of north Kashmir and confirmed the submission of a bail petition, expressing confidence in a favorable judicial determination.
Speaking to media, Abrar stated, “This ruling signifies an essential affirmation of democratic representation. My father received an overwhelming mandate in the Lok Sabha elections, and the electorate vested their trust in him to serve in Parliament. However, due to imposed restrictions, he was unable to attend the previous three sessions.”
He further elaborated, “The initial phase of this session is set to conclude on February 13. His presence in Parliament is not only a matter of personal relief but a significant moment for the people of north Kashmir. Additionally, a petition for regular bail has been submitted, and we remain hopeful for a fair and just resolution upon its hearing.”
Sheikh Ashiq, state secretary of the Awami Ittehad Party (AIP), also lauded the court’s ruling. “This decision has brought widespread relief across Kashmir. As a colleague, I am particularly gratified. We remain hopeful for his full recovery following his hunger strike, and we anticipate his constructive engagement in parliamentary proceedings,” he remarked.
Advocate Vikhyat Oberoi, legal counsel for Engineer Rashid, confirmed that the High Court had granted custody parole for February 11 and 13. “The High Court has sanctioned two days of custody parole under stringent conditions, including prohibitions on internet and mobile phone usage, as well as restrictions on media interactions and public engagements,” he affirmed.
The Delhi High Court issued this parole while Engineer Rashid remains incarcerated in Tihar Jail in connection with an ongoing terror funding case. A bench led by Justice Vikas Mahajan mandated that Rashid be escorted to and from Parliament under strict security protocols. The court explicitly barred any form of media engagement or digital communication during this period.
The Budget Session of Parliament commenced on January 31 with an address by President Droupadi Murmu. The first phase is scheduled to conclude on February 13, while the second phase will proceed from March 10 to April 4.
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