Engineer Rashid, the Lok Sabha MP from Baramulla in Jammu and Kashmir, announced on Saturday that he will observe a two-day hunger strike starting at 10 am on October 1, ahead of Gandhi Jayanti. This act aims to highlight the ongoing need for peace and the relevance of Mahatma Gandhi’s principles of non-violence.
Currently incarcerated in New Delhi’s Tihar jail over a terror funding case, Rashid addressed a handwritten letter to Mahatma Gandhi, expressing his views on the state of the world. He lamented the global tendency towards violence, stating that nations often claim to seek peace while engaging in actions that contradict their words.
“Those who speak most of your message, Bapu, hardly match their words with deeds,” Rashid wrote, emphasizing the urgent need for introspection in the face of persistent violence.
Rashid’s concerns extend to the situation in Kashmir, where he feels the legacy of Gandhi’s vision has now turned into a narrative of conflict. He recounted how Gandhi viewed Kashmir as a haven of hope during the tumultuous time of Partition.
Despite this optimistic view, Rashid pointed out that the Kashmiris today face dehumanization, branded as anti-national or communal, feeding into a narrative that skips over their legitimate rights. In his letter, he stated, “Being Islamist is an honour for every Muslim, and no true Muslim can ever be radical.” He called for recognition of political and human rights for the people of Kashmir.
Rashid lamented that many remain silent due to fear of retribution under the stringent provisions of laws like the UAPA. He highlighted the suffering and death among prisoners, and he noted the political ramifications of Post-Partition disarray, which continue to affect people today.
Referring to the long-standing conflicts faced by the Kashmiri Pandit community, Rashid remarked on how they were historically protected by their Muslim neighbors, and criticized their continued plight as refugees. He painted Tihar jail as a retreat for those who pursue non-violence in their fight for rights.
He characterized the state of affairs as reflective of “divisive politics” that have overshadowed Gandhi’s vision, replaced instead by “draconian policies.” Rashid expressed his concern about the state of helplessness many face, suggesting that elitist forces are exploiting their plight. “Our commitment to non-violence is interpreted as weakness,” he added, reiterating the need for action.
He cited the ongoing struggle faced by Muslims, who have been unfairly categorized and vilified, asserting that the true enemies of the state are not external, but thrive within its borders. Rashid urged that the focus should not be on creating enemies, as the greater threats emerge from those who pervert the very essence of national unity.
Through his hunger strike, Sheikh Abdul Rashid endeavors to remind his fellow citizens of the principles Gandhiji championed, reaffirming their relevance in today’s socio-political landscape. The fast will end at 10 am on October 3, the very day the country honors the memory of Gandhi.
As Rashid embarks on this fast, the eyes of the nation will be glued to Tihar Jail, where his actions could reignite discussions about non-violence, peace, and the ongoing conflicts in Kashmir. With the fate of Kashmir ever so precarious, Rashid’s message remains one of promoting dialogue over discord, urging political leaders and citizens alike to reconsider their approaches.
