*“The people of Kashmir must remain vigilant and avoid a divided vote as (Awami Ittehad Party chief) Er Rashid is being released to split votes,” People’s Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti said on Wednesday.
Speaking to reporters after addressing party workers in Watchi and Shopian, the former chief minister called for unity among voters. “People of Kashmir must stay alert as Er Rashid’s release seems aimed at dividing the vote,” she said.
While Mufti welcomed Rashid’s release, she raised concerns about its timing. “He should have been released earlier, so he could have represented the people of J&K in Parliament,” she remarked. “I wish Er Rashid had been freed during the Parliamentary elections, allowing him to seek votes for himself. Now, with his release on bail, the timing is suspicious,” she added.
Mehbooba further questioned the apparent funding behind AIP’s campaign activities. “I am surprised to see AIP carrying out huge rallies with vehicles. Who is financing AIP? PDP candidates are short of funds for rallies, but AIP has fielded candidates everywhere, which makes it seem like agencies have chosen their candidates,” she said.
When asked about Jamaat-e-Islami’s (JeI) participation in the elections, she expressed uncertainty. “JeI is banned, isn’t it? I’m not sure if it’s really JeI contesting or if it’s agencies. Jamaat must clarify this,” she said.
The PDP chief also highlighted the “unfair treatment” of families unable to visit their jailed loved ones. “There should be an unbiased approach in such matters,” she said—(KNO)
