Srinagar, In the recent Indian parliamentary elections, Engineer Abdul Rasheed’s victory has been interpreted by National Conference Vice President Omar Abdullah as a definitive signal to Delhi regarding the political aspirations of the people in Jammu and Kashmir.

According to Kashmir Media Service, despite being incarcerated, Engineer Rasheed won the election, with his campaign led by his son Abrar Rasheed, who actively promoted his father’s long-standing demand for a plebiscite to determine the region’s political future. Omar Abdullah noted the significant support Rasheed garnered, particularly the powerful sentiment that influenced even women voters to demand his release.

Abrar Rasheed, 23, highlighted the campaign’s focus on youth empowerment and the aspirations for dignity, safety, and peace. His rallying cry, “Avenge imprisonment with votes, avenge Tihar with votes,” underscored the campaign’s narrative of resistance and hope for his father’s release. The election result, as per analysts, not only reflects the popularity of Rasheed’s call for a plebiscite but also serves as a poignant critique of New Delhi’s policies, especially the controversial 2019 decisions affecting the region.

The international community, as noted in global discussions and by voices like Al Jazeera, should recognize the significance of this electoral outcome as a plea for honoring commitments to the people of Kashmir, with a referendum seen as the essential path forward. This election cycle was marked by a tense atmosphere, yet voters used their ballots as a means of protest, conveying a clear message through their participation.