New Delhi: Baramulla MP Engineer Rashid, on the eighth day of his hunger strike in Tihar Jail, was admitted to Ram Manohar Lohia (RML) Hospital after his health deteriorated. His son, Asrar, posted it on X.
Rashid, who defeated JK CM Omar Abdullah in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, launched the strike on January 31, protesting the denial of his participation in the Budget Session. He argued that 40% of Kashmir’s population remained unrepresented in Parliament.
In a letter to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla and CJI Sanjiv Khanna, Rashid stated he had no choice but to protest against the suppression of his political rights. He accused authorities of ignoring the people’s mandate and using the UAPA to silence him.
AIP spokesperson Inam-Un-Nabi called the hunger strike a dignified protest against injustice, urging authorities to uphold democracy.
Meanwhile, Tihar Jail officials cited prison rules, stating that grievances won’t be addressed during a hunger strike and that force-feeding may be used if necessary.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed concern over the deteriorating health condition of Engineer Rashid.
He said that the authorities should ensure that his condition does not deteriorate. “Very concerned to hear about Er Rashid having to be shifted to hospital.
“It is imperative that authorities take proper care & ensure that his condition does not deteriorate while the court arrives at a considered decision on his bail plea,” Omar wrote.
