B’la MP Er Rashid surrenders in Tihar jail after interim bail ends

Srinagar, Oct 28: Baramulla MP, Engineer Rashid surrendered at Tihar Jail on Monday after his interim bail expired.
Rashid, the leader of the Awami Ittehad Party (AIP), has been in custody since 2019, following his arrest by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) in connection with a 2017 terror funding case under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.
Engineer Rashid had been granted interim bail on September 10 by Additional Sessions Judge Chander Jit Singh to participate in campaigning for the recent Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections, where he represents the Baramulla constituency. Rashid’s bail was extended in early October on grounds of his father’s health, which the NIA verified without objection. However, with the latest extension ending on October 28, Rashid appeared at Tihar Jail as his regular bail plea awaits a court decision.
Speaking from Handwara, Rashid’s younger brother, Sheikh Khurshid, who also serves as an MLA from Langate, confirmed Rashid’s surrender. He noted that their family and the party were prepared for this outcome and that no additional interim bail was sought. “The court’s hearing on his regular bail application is set for November 19. Until then, Engineer Rashid will remain in custody,” Khurshid stated.
The AIP has urged Rashid’s supporters across the Baramulla constituency to bring local issues to their party offices in Bandipora, Handwara, and Kupwara, ensuring representation during his absence. Rashid’s legal team remains hopeful about the upcoming bail hearing and is committed to continuing his work on behalf of the constituency.