Srinagar: Amid ongoing tensions in Jammu and Kashmir, Engineer Abdul Rasheed, President of the Awami Ittehad Party (AIP) and a member of the Indian Parliament, has called for a practical resolution to the Kashmir conflict, recognizing Pakistan’s significant involvement as a key stakeholder.
According to Kashmir Media Service, during a recent public statement, Rasheed emphasized his commitment to peace and clarified his party’s stance on political alignments, countering rumors of any cooperation with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). He affirmed that his focus remains on halting the violence and restoring the rights and identity of the Kashmiri people, including the controversial revocation of Articles 370 and 35A.
Rasheed argued, “Our identity which has been snatched from us should be given back, whether it is Article 370 or 35A, should be restored because it is our right…” He further noted that the Kashmiri population has consistently supported a democratic approach to resolving their issues, despite facing harsh measures from the state.
“The voting percentage has increased because people have been victims of state repression,” Rasheed explained, suggesting that the higher voter turnout in recent times is a direct response to the intense political and military pressures experienced by the residents.
The AIP leader’s remarks come at a time when the international community’s attention is once again on Kashmir, urging stakeholders like Pakistan and India to find a peaceful solution to the long-standing dispute.