New Delhi: Member of Parliament from Baramulla, Er Rashid, on Tuesday raised several issues concerning Jammu and Kashmir in Parliament, touching upon development, employment, religious freedoms and public sentiment in the region.
Referring to the recent release of activist Sonam Wangchuk, Rashid said he welcomed the move but questioned the shifting narratives around individuals earlier labelled in harsh terms. “Sir, I would first like to thank the government for releasing Sonam Wangchuk, but I want to ask since when have Chinese and Pakistani agents suddenly become nationalist overnight?” he said.
Mentioning recent religious occasions, Rashid noted that Jumat-ul-Vida had passed a few days earlier and Shab-e-Qadr was observed the previous night. “I am in jail, but I extend my greetings to the people of my constituency and the entire Kashmir,” he said.
Speaking on development, the Baramulla MP expressed hope that issues related to the realignment of the Baramulla–Uri railway line would be addressed on priority. Congratulating engineers and workers involved in the construction of the Chenab rail bridge, he said the project was a remarkable achievement. “For the bridge built over the Chenab river, we congratulate the entire team of engineers and workers from the bottom of our hearts,” he said, adding that railways are “the aircraft of the common man.”
Highlighting Kashmir’s cultural identity, Rashid suggested that a train be named after prominent Kashmiri figures such as Habba Khatoon, Lal Ded, Sheikh-ul-Alam, or Sultan-ul-Arifeen so that the sentiments of the people of the region are represented.
Raising the issue of employment, Rashid urged the government to provide special provisions for youth from Jammu and Kashmir. “At least two percent reservation in jobs should be provided, because since 1999 we have faced immense hardships due to militancy,” he said.
The MP also criticised the closure of Jamia Masjid Srinagar, stating that the historic mosque should be reopened for prayers. “I strongly condemn the government for sealing Jamia Masjid Srinagar and not allowing prayers there,” he said, questioning why the mosque remains closed when religious congregations in other places are welcomed and honoured.
Rashid further called for improved regional connectivity and access to the historic Sharda Peeth temple across the Line of Control. He said dialogue with the neighbouring country could help facilitate visits by devotees. “Whenever you find it appropriate, you should engage with the government across the border so that our Sharda Peeth temple can be made accessible… our Kashmiri Pandit brothers and devotees want to visit it,” he said.
Emphasising the need for reconciliation and trust-building, Rashid said development alone would not bridge the emotional divide. “Railways can reduce the distance from Delhi, but if you want to reduce the distance of hearts, you must win the hearts of the people of Jammu and Kashmir,” he said.
In his concluding remarks, Rashid called for greater engagement with the people of the region and reiterated that restrictions on Jamia Masjid Srinagar should be lifted.
