Sheikh Abdul Rashid, also known as Engineer Rashid, a Lok Sabha MP from Baramulla in Jammu and Kashmir, will sit on a two-day hunger strike in Tihar Jail from October 1 to October 3. The protest aligns with the observance of Gandhi Jayanti, aiming to reiterate the significance of Mahatma Gandhi’s principles of non-violence.
Rashid, currently incarcerated due to charges in a terror funding case, expressed his intentions through a handwritten letter addressed to ‘Bapu.’ In this heartfelt message, he underscored the global necessity for peace, stating, “The entire world is in a desperate need for peace.”
Rashid emphasized the relevance of Gandhi’s philosophy today, asserting that violence persists worldwide, often under the guise of seeking peace. He wrote, “Those who speak most of your message, Bapu, hardly match their words with deeds.”
His concerns extend beyond general observations; he specifically highlighted the turbulent situation in Kashmir. He recalled Gandhi’s vision during the Partition of India and portrayed Kashmir as a “beacon of hope and harmony.” Unfortunately, he lamented that present-day Kashmiris face harsh labels, alleging that they are branded anti-national or militant for voicing their legitimate political and human rights concerns.
“Being Islamist is an honour for every Muslim, and no true Muslim can ever be radical,” Rashid declared. His thoughts on the status of Kashmiri Pandits illustrated a poignant history, claiming they were once protected by their Muslim counterparts during tumultuous times, yet remain displaced even today.
Rashid’s letter detailed the increasing challenges faced by his community, stating, “Nobody is ready to address our snatched legitimate political and human rights.” He criticized the silence surrounding draconian laws like the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), which he argues aim to suppress voices of dissent and classify peaceful protests as terrorism.
“Thousands lie in graves, men in prisons lose their lives, and thousands of us are in jails because of the misdeeds of Partition, for which nobody takes responsibility,” Rashid expressed.
He condemned what he described as “divisive politics” that overshadowed Gandhi’s vision of unity and non-violence. In his letter, he noted, “Our helplessness is being enjoyed by fascist forces, and our commitment to non-violence is interpreted as weakness.” Rashid stated that the status quo has transformed Jammu and Kashmir into an “experimental lab” for authoritarian policies.
The sentiments expressed in Rashid’s letter resonate beyond mere politics; they reflect a deep-rooted anguish prevalent among the Kashmiri populace. “Instead of harmony, Muslims are branded outsiders, with terms like ‘Babar ki Aulad’ (Babar’s children) legitimising hate,” he asserted.
As the nation gears up to commemorate Gandhi Jayanti, Rashid’s decision to undertake a hunger strike highlights the urgent need for reconciliation and understanding amid ongoing conflicts. His call for a timely reminder of Gandhi’s teachings on non-violence serves as a poignant request for peace and justice in a region fraught with turmoil.
