New Delhi, July 5 (NVI) : Abdul Rashid Sheikh alias Er. Rashid, a newly-elected Member of Lok Sabha who is imprisoned for terror-related charges in Kashmir, took the oath of office as a Member of the Lower House of Parliament here today.
Er.Rashid, even while being in jail was elected from Baramulla Lok Sabha constituency last month, defeating former Chief Minister of J&K Omar Abdullah by a huge margin in 2024 Lok Sabha elections.
The 56-year-old, who is lodged in Delhi’s Tihar Jail for over five years on charges of terrorist funding under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA), was granted a brief parole by a court for this purpose of oath-taking, demonstrating commitment to upholding democratic processes.
After the oath-taking, he was taken back to the jail.
The central government and judicial system navigated significant challenges to ensure Er. Rashid could fulfill his constitutional duty.
On July 2, Delhi’s Patiala House Court, with the National Investigation Agency’s (NIA) consent, granted him a two-hour custody parole.
This decision underscores the government’s dedication to maintaining democratic norms while ensuring national security.
Several of Er. Rashid’s family members, including his sons Asrar Rashid and Abrar Rashid, his daughter, wife, and brother Khursheed Ahmad Sheikh, attended the event. At least two other party functionaries were also present.