Kashmir’s Future Lies in Dialogue: Engineer Rashid’s Call for Unity and Resolution

Engineer Rashid’s Rally: A Message of Hope and Defiance

By: Javid Amin
Baramulla, Sep 12: In a charged and emotional speech, Engineer Rashid, Member of Parliament from Baramulla and leader of the Awami Ittehad Party (AIP), reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Speaking at a massive rally in Delina Pattan, Baramulla, Rashid emphasized that the core of his mission is not about electoral politics but rather a lasting solution to the Kashmir conflict. He urged people to stay united and strong, despite the political climate.

“My fight is for the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Elections are not an issue for me; the solution to Kashmir is my issue,” Rashid declared. His words reflected a deep conviction in seeking justice for the region, underscoring his long-standing dedication to the Kashmiri cause.

“We Will Not Be Silenced” – Rashid’s Defiant Stand

Rashid did not mince words in his direct challenge to the Indian government’s policies in Kashmir. He declared, “Nobody can suppress our voice, be it Prime Minister Narendra Modi or Home Minister Amit Shah.” His speech resonated deeply with the audience, as he asserted the need for dignity, respect, and self-determination for the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

“We don’t seek alms; we only want to be treated as humans. We want the resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir issue. The first step is protecting our rights, self-respect, and liberty,” he said, sending a clear message that the demand for justice will not be silenced.

Rashid’s passionate call to protect the rights and liberties of Kashmiris set the tone for his broader political vision: a future where dialogue, unity, and justice pave the way to peace.

Dialogue as the Only Path Forward

At the heart of Rashid’s speech was his belief in dialogue. He posed a poignant question to Prime Minister Narendra Modi: “If you can broker peace deals between Ukraine and Russia, and hold talks with the Taliban in Doha, why can’t you engage in a meaningful dialogue with Kashmiris?”

Drawing a parallel with the Naga peace talks, Rashid pointed out the inconsistencies in the government’s approach. “If talks can be held with the Nagas, why not with Kashmiris?” he questioned, emphasizing that the future of Kashmir lies in dialogue, not violence or suppression.

This call for dialogue has been central to Rashid’s political ideology, and it remains his key solution to resolving the long-standing conflict. Rashid urged the Indian government to open channels of communication, not just with mainstream political parties but also with marginalized and oppressed voices in Kashmir.

Critiquing ‘Naya Kashmir’: A Hollow Promise?

Rashid was critical of Prime Minister Modi’s promise of a ‘Naya Kashmir’ (New Kashmir), calling it an illusion created to mislead people. He described the slogan as nothing but a guise for continued oppression and control of the region.

“Modi’s idea of ‘Naya Kashmir’ has failed. The people of Kashmir are peace-loving, but they will never bow down to oppression, no matter how mighty the force,” Rashid proclaimed. He criticized Home Minister Amit Shah for taking credit for the decline in stone-pelting incidents and attributing it to the abrogation of Article 370. According to Rashid, the people’s resilience and desire for peace cannot be mistaken for submission.

He noted that while there may be fewer public protests, the simmering discontent and frustration among Kashmiris continue. Rashid asserted that the region’s peace cannot be ensured through military or political force but through mutual respect and dialogue.

Opposition to Article 370 Abrogation: The Betrayal of Ladakh

Rashid strongly criticized the abrogation of Article 370, which stripped Jammu and Kashmir of its special constitutional status. He highlighted the fallout of the decision, particularly in Ladakh. He noted that the Member of Parliament from Ladakh had clapped during Home Minister Shah’s statement on the abrogation, a gesture that Rashid viewed as misguided support.

The subsequent elections in Ladakh, where the BJP came in third place, proved, according to Rashid, that the people of Ladakh rejected the central government’s decision. “This was a direct vote against the abrogation of Article 370, and the government should learn from it,” Rashid said.

The People’s Movement: A Call to the Center

For Rashid, the Kashmir cause is no longer just a political issue; it has evolved into a people’s movement. He urged the Indian government to seize the opportunity to resolve the conflict. “The voice of the people can no longer be suppressed through arrests and oppression. This is now a people’s movement, and New Delhi must recognize this reality,” Rashid warned.

The leader argued that imprisoning youth, Hurriyat leaders, and other representatives of the Kashmiri people will not quell the movement. Instead, he called for the release of political prisoners and an inclusive approach to resolving the issue. According to Rashid, the government’s heavy-handed approach is only fueling resentment and pushing the region further from peace.

AIP: A Grassroots Movement Gaining Strength

The Awami Ittehad Party (AIP), Rashid’s political outfit, has gained significant support, which he attributes to its genuine representation of the people’s aspirations. Unlike other political parties, Rashid’s AIP is seen as a grassroots movement.

In response to allegations by Mehbooba Mufti, the PDP President and former Chief Minister, who claimed that Rashid’s political campaign was being funded, Rashid hit back. “People’s movements don’t need funds. People themselves get involved in these movements because they believe in the cause,” he said.

This emphasis on the organic growth of the AIP, fueled by the people, is what Rashid believes distinguishes his party from others. He maintains that the AIP’s strength lies in its connection with the ground realities of Jammu and Kashmir, rather than the political elites.

Political Betrayals: A Critique of the Muftis and Abdullahs

Rashid did not hold back in criticizing his political rivals, particularly the Mufti family and the Abdullah family. He accused the late Mufti Mohammad Sayeed, former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, of bringing the BJP into the region’s politics.

“Mufti Sahab’s vision was to bring the BJP into Kashmir, and the irony is that his daughter Mehbooba Mufti has not yet repented for this decision,” Rashid said. He argued that this alliance had paved the way for the BJP’s entry into Kashmiri politics, a move that Rashid believes betrayed the people’s trust.

Rashid also targeted the National Conference (NC), calling the Abdullahs responsible for the “biggest betrayal” of the Kashmiri people after Sheikh Abdullah’s accord with the Indian government. According to Rashid, both the Muftis and Abdullahs had repeatedly compromised the interests of Kashmiris for their political gain.

Targeting Sajad Lone and Altaf Bukhari

In addition to the Mufti and Abdullah families, Rashid directed his criticism at Sajad Lone, the Peoples Conference (PC) President, and Altaf Bukhari, the Apni Party President. He accused them of trying to distance themselves from the BJP while subtly aligning with the party.

“Sajad Lone must answer who referred to Narendra Modi as his ‘big brother’ after meeting him in New Delhi,” Rashid questioned, calling out what he described as hypocrisy among political leaders who claim to be independent but have ties to the central government.

Empowering the Youth: Rashid’s Message of Hope

Engineer Rashid’s speech was not only a critique of the government and his political rivals but also a message of hope and empowerment for the youth of Kashmir. He urged the younger generation to focus on acquiring education while trusting the AIP to handle the political struggle.

“You have put your faith in us, and we won’t let you down. Leave politics to us, and focus on your education,” he told the youth. Rashid’s call for unity and perseverance resonated with the audience, as he assured them that the truth was on their side.

Defiance Against Suppression: Rashid’s Final Word

In a powerful closing statement, Rashid reiterated his belief that no force, no matter how powerful, could suppress the voice of the Kashmiri people. “Don’t lose heart, my people. Truth is on our side. Nobody can suppress our voice, be it Narendra Modi or Amit Shah,” he declared.

Rashid’s speech in Delina Pattan was a powerful reminder of his commitment to the Kashmiri cause. By focusing on dialogue over elections, he has reaffirmed his dedication to finding a peaceful resolution to the region’s conflict. His critique of political rivals and the central government underscores his vision for a future where the rights, dignity, and aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir are recognized and respected.

Bottom-Line: The Road Ahead for Kashmir

Engineer Rashid’s message is clear: Kashmir’s future lies in unity, dialogue, and resistance. His commitment to seeking a peaceful and just resolution to the Kashmir issue sets him apart from his political counterparts. By calling for dialogue with the Indian government and standing up against suppression, Rashid has positioned himself as a leader with a vision rooted in the people’s aspirations.

As the political landscape of Jammu and Kashmir continues to evolve, Rashid’s call for unity and resolution remains a beacon of hope for many. His demand for justice, rights, and respect echoes the sentiments of countless Kashmiris who long for a future of peace and dignity. The question remains: will New Delhi heed this call and engage in the dialogue that Engineer Rashid so fervently champions? The answer to this question may determine the future course of the Kashmir issue.