The Awami Ittehad Party (AIP) is set to conduct a comprehensive consultation process across all 18 Assembly segments of the Baramulla Parliamentary Constituency, potentially including a secret ballot, to gauge public sentiment on jailed MP Sheikh Abdul Rashid's proposal to resign from the Lok Sabha.
Rashid's resignation proposal
Rashid, popularly known as Engineer Rashid, recently expressed his intention to step down as the Member of Parliament from Baramulla during his father's funeral. He cited his continued incarceration as the primary reason, stating it prevents him from effectively serving his constituents.
The AIP said on Monday that Rashid's desire to resign stems not from personal or political considerations but from his deep concern for the people who elected him. According to party spokesperson Inam Un Nabi, Rashid has built his political career around accessibility and direct engagement with the public since his election as an MLA in 2008. His doors remained open to the people round the clock, and he was always available to listen to their grievances and intervene on their behalf.
Party's consultation process
Nabi emphasized that Rashid believes being a Member of Parliament is not merely about delivering speeches or allocating development funds. His understanding of public service is much broader; he feels an elected representative must remain accessible and actively involved in addressing day-to-day concerns.
AIP leaders revealed that Rashid is deeply troubled that his continued incarceration adversely affects nearly 40% of Kashmir's population, which the Baramulla constituency represents. He feels the people who elected him are not receiving the representation and accessibility they deserve due to circumstances beyond his control.
Another party leader stated that the Political Affairs Committee of the AIP deliberated extensively and unanimously concluded that the final decision should rest with the people. Since Rashid was elected by the people, it is only appropriate that they decide whether he should continue as their MP or whether resignation would be in their best interest.
Secret ballot mechanism
The party plans to engage senior leaders with the public, civil society members, political workers, and other stakeholders to ascertain their views. If required, they are prepared to conduct a secret ballot exercise so that people can express their opinion freely and transparently.
Inam Un Nabi confirmed that the message emerging from the consultation process would be conveyed to Engineer Rashid. If the majority believes he should resign, that view will be communicated to him. If the people want him to continue despite the challenges posed by his incarceration, that sentiment too will be placed before him.
The AIP reiterated its commitment to democratic principles, asserting that the ultimate authority in such a matter rests with the people who elected their representative.
