Member of Parliament from Baramulla, Engineer Rashid, on Tuesday raised wide range of issues in Parliament, related to religious freedom and its impact on public sentiments on one hand, and the welfare matters of development, employment in Jammu and Kashmir.The AIP MP slammed closure of Jamia Masjid in Kashmir and termed it as assault on religious freedom.
At the outset, he said, “I would first like to thank the government for releasing Sonam Wangchukh, but I want to ask since when have Chinese and Pakistani agents suddenly become nationalist overnight?”, questioning what he termed as shifting narratives.Referring to the significance of the occasion, Rashid said, “few days before was Jumat-ul-Vida… and Shab-e… Qadar last night, I am in jail, but I extend my greetings to the people of my constituency and the entire Kashmir.”
MP Rashid strongly criticized the closure of Jamia Masjid Srinagar, stating, “I strongly condemn the government for sealing Jamia Masjid Srinagar and not allowing prayers there.” He further questioned, “When you shower flowers on religious congregations from helicopters in other places, which is good, then why is our Jamia Masjid in Kashmir closed?”
Speaking on development, the AIP MP appreciated railway officials and said, “Hon’ble Railway Minister is very capable… whenever we meet him, he listens sincerely.” He expressed hope that issues related to the realignment of Baramulla–Uri railway line, would be addressed.
Congratulating engineers and workers on the Chenab bridge, he said, “For the bridge built over the Chenab river, we congratulate the entire team of engineers and workers from the bottom of our hearts.” He added, “Railways are the aircraft of the common man.”
Highlighting cultural identity, he suggested, “At least one train should be named after Habba Khatoon, Lal Ded, Sheikh-ul-Alam or Sultan-ul-Arifeen so that the sentiments of the people are represented.”On employment, Er Rashid urged, “At least two percent reservation in jobs should be provided, because since 1999 we have faced immense hardships due to militancy.”
Calling for improved connectivity and long-term peace, he said, “Whenever you find it appropriate, you should engage with the government across the border so that our Sharda Peeth temple can be made accessible… our Kashmiri Pandit brothers and devotees want to visit it; it is a historic monument.”
Er Rashid further added, “Today the world has become a global village… this railway line can be connected through Muzaffarabad to Sharda Peeth and further ahead. We pray that such a day comes when our people can visit this historic place.”Emphasising on trust-building, he remarked, “Railways can reduce the distance from Delhi, but if you want to reduce the distance of hearts, you must win the hearts of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.”
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