MP Rashid raises J&K civilian “killings” in his maiden Parliament speech

New Delhi|Feb, 11 : In his maiden speech during the ongoing Budget session, Member of Parliament from Baramulla Lok Sabha seat, Sheik Ab Rashid raised the issue of recent civilian “killings” in Kathua and Baramulla, stating that the blood of Kashmiris is not cheap. He was granted 2-day custody parole by the Delhi High Court on Monday to attend Parliament session.
Speaking in Parliament, Rashid demanded an impartial probe into the deaths of Waseem Ahmed Mir, who died in Army firing during a naka checking in Baramulla and Makhan Din, who allegedly died by suicide due to police atrocities in Kathua. Their deaths sparked outrage with political parties and leaders demanding a thorough probe. The Baramulla Member Parliament urged the house that the two deaths be investigated. “Our blood is not cheap. We have the right to live,” he said. Rashid also questioned the role of security forces. “Do our forces need Waseem Mir’s blood every day?” he asked, urging the Government to conduct a thorough probe in both cases. He also highlighted the challenges faced by residents of remote areas in north Kashmir, including Karna, Keran, and Machil. “These people survive for six months with God’s blessings,” he said, urging the Government to construct a tunnel for these regions. Rashid has been in Tihar Jail since 2019 after being arrested by the NIA under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act in connection with a 2017 militant-funding case. He was elected as Member of Parliament from the Baramulla constituency in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. The Delhi high court on Monday granted him two-day custody parole to attend the ongoing Budget session in the Parliament with some restriction. The court directed him not to use internet or speak to media during this period