Handwara, Oct 11: Member of Parliament (MP) for Baramulla, Engineer Rashid, announced on Friday that the Awami Ittehad Party (AIP) will not join the new government but will extend support to any administration that implements policies beneficial to the people of Jammu & Kashmir.
Speaking to the media persons in Langate, Handwara, Rashid expressed optimism about the new government’s success. “I am hopeful and pray for the success of this new government because the people of Jammu & Kashmir have faced numerous challenges in the past,” he said.
The AIP chief accused National Conference (NC) vice president Omar Abdullah of frequently changing his position on key issues. “Omar Abdullah has a history of making U-turns. He previously backtracked on statements regarding the restoration of Article 370, making it difficult to trust him,” he said.
He said that while the new government holds promise, the onus is on Abdullah to fulfill his previous commitments. “The people of Jammu & Kashmir have endured many hardships, and it’s time for him to deliver on his promises,” he added.
Rashid reminded Abdullah of pledges during election rallies, which included free electricity, rations and gas cylinders.
He also called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi to fully support whichever party forms the government in Jammu & Kashmir, saying that the AIP will prioritise the concerns of the common people and advocate for initiatives that align with public welfare. “Wherever we find common ground, we will raise the issues of the people,” he said.
Responding to a question about his political future, the MP Baramulla said, “Wherever we are, we will remain in the hearts of the people, whether in jail or elsewhere. We are hopeful that justice will prevail.”
