Sheikh Abdul Rashid, the Lok Sabha MP from Baramulla, Jammu and Kashmir, plans to sit on a hunger strike for two days in Tihar Jail from October 1 to mark the eve of Gandhi Jayanti. The initiative aims to underscore the persistent relevance of Gandhi’s philosophy of non-violence in today’s world.
Currently imprisoned on charges of terror funding, Rashid penned a heartfelt letter to the late Mahatma Gandhi, emphasizing the urgent global need for peace. He stated that despite nations speaking of peace, violence continues to plague the world.
“Those who resonate with your message, Bapu, often fail to align their actions with their words,” Rashid criticized in his letter. He expressed deep concern for the turmoil in Kashmir, recalling Gandhi’s vision of the region as a symbol of hope during the violence of Partition.
Rashid lamented the labels cast upon Kashmiris in contemporary society. “Today, we are labeled anti-national, radicals, and proxies of Pakistan. Being an Islamist is an honour for Muslims; no true Muslim embodies radicalism,” he stated.
Furthermore, Rashid pointed out the lack of acknowledgment regarding the political and human rights issues faced by the people of Kashmir. He voiced dismay that even dissenters of stringent laws like the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act remain silent due to fear.
“Thousands lie in graves, countless suffer in prisons; we face the consequences of a tragedy like Partition for which no one takes responsibility,” he declared emphatically.
He also addressed the unresolved issues of Kashmiri Pandits, sharing, “Despite their historical protection provided by Kashmiri Muslims, they continue to exist as refugees.” Rashid insisted that Tihar Jail has become a refuge for those advocating for non-violent resistance to secure their rights.
In his letter, Rashid condemned the prevalent divisive politics, arguing that Gandhi’s vision has given way to “draconian policies.”
“Fascist forces revel in our helplessness, while our dedication to non-violence is misconstrued as weakness. The state has turned Jammu and Kashmir into an experimental ground for such policies,” he elaborated.
He expressed confidence that Gandhi’s spirit would be troubled by the conditions Kashmiris have endured since 1989. “Rather than prosperity, Muslims face branding as outsiders. The term ‘Babar ki Aulad’ has amplified hatred; we do not require foreign enemies as ultranationalists operate more destructively than outsiders could ever do,” he noted.
Setting the stage for this critical act of resistance, Rashid aimed for the hunger strike to be a clarion call, urging fellow countrymen to revisit the significance of Gandhi’s teachings on non-violence. The hunger strike will commence at 10 AM on October 1 and conclude at 10 AM on October 3.
