The Delhi High Court has granted a two-day custody parole to Jammu and Kashmir MP and leader of the Awami Itehaad Party (AIP), Engineer Rashid, allowing him to attend the Parliamentary budget session. This decision comes after careful deliberation, with the court previously reserving its verdict when the National Investigation Agency (NIA) expressed opposition to the parole.
Engineer Rashid, who was arrested in 2019 under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) on charges of terror funding, had previously been granted temporary bail last year to participate in his party’s election campaign. Despite these efforts, AIP secured only one seat, with Rashid’s brother, Sheikh Khursheed, winning in Langate, a known AIP stronghold.
Following the elections, Rashid returned to Tihar jail and recently petitioned for parole to be present during the critical budget discussions in Parliament. The court has stipulated that during his parole from February 11-13, Rashid will be subject to several restrictions, including prohibitions on using a mobile phone, accessing the internet, and interacting with the media or the public beyond his parliamentary duties.
The decision on Rashid’s parole was made after hearing arguments from both his legal representation and the NIA. The court’s conditions reflect a cautious approach, balancing Rashid’s rights as an elected official with the security concerns outlined by the NIA.
In addition to his temporary release, Rashid’s legal team continues to press for resolutions regarding his incarceration. His primary petition concerning his regular bail plea is scheduled for a hearing on Tuesday. Amidst these legal battles, Rashid recently undertook a hunger strike in protest against his prolonged detention, which led to his hospitalization due to deteriorating health.
