Kashmir, a region mired in political turmoil, has witnessed decades of unrest and disillusionment with its leadership. For years, political parties like the National Conference (NC) and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) have dominated the scene, making grand promises during election campaigns but failing to deliver on the Kashmir issue once in power. The disconnect between these parties and the common masses has led to widespread frustration, particularly among the youth, who feel abandoned by the very leaders who claimed to champion their cause. As the 2024 Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections approach, a new hope seems to be emerging in the form of Engineer Sheikh Abdul Rashid, the leader of the Awami Ittehad Party (AIP). Known for his advocacy of Kashmiri rights and his independent stance, Rashid has captured the attention of a population hungry for genuine leadership.
Betrayal by Traditional Parties
The NC and PDP have long positioned themselves as defenders of Kashmiri interests, particularly on issues like the region’s autonomy and the now-abrogated Article 370. However, once in power, these parties have often shifted their focus away from these critical issues. In particular, the PDP’s coalition with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) after the 2014 elections eroded much of its credibility. Many Kashmiris saw this alliance as a betrayal, further isolating the PDP from its base.
Engineer Rashid has consistently criticized these parties for their political opportunism and failure to truly represent the aspirations of the Kashmiri people. Unlike the leadership of the NC and PDP, who have been accused of corruption and nepotism, Rashid has positioned himself as a leader of the people. He has called out the traditional parties for amassing wealth and adjusting their relatives into influential positions while neglecting the broader political needs of the masses.
The Emergence of Engineer Rashid
Rashid’s political journey is not new. During his previous tenure as a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) representing Langate, he made a name for himself as a vocal advocate for common Kashmiris, particularly the disenfranchised. His emphasis on local issues, including poverty, unemployment, and the harsh living conditions faced by many in the region, earned him the support of many who felt ignored by the NC and PDP.
In the 2024 elections, Rashid’s AIP is contesting multiple seats, including those in Baramulla and Langate, without forming alliances with the larger political parties. His focus remains on protecting the rights and dignity of Kashmiris. Having been imprisoned in a terror funding case, Rashid has used his incarceration as a badge of honor, contrasting his hardships with the comfortable lives of other political leaders who have been jailed under less severe conditions. His imprisonment and subsequent release on bail have added to his image as a leader who is willing to suffer for the cause of the Kashmiri people.
Engineer Rashid’s Appeal to the Youth
One of the most significant shifts in the Kashmiri political landscape is the rising importance of younger voters. Disillusioned by decades of political stagnation and empty promises, many of these voters are looking for alternatives to the NC and PDP. Rashid’s success in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, where he garnered significant support despite competing against established political heavyweights like Omar Abdullah, is a testament to his appeal. His straightforward and unapologetic style, coupled with his refusal to align with nationalistic or coalition politics, resonates with youth who feel abandoned by the traditional political establishment.
Rashid has made it clear that his fight is not with the NC or PDP but with the larger goal of restoring the dignity and rights of Kashmiris. His platform stands in stark contrast to the regional and national parties that, in his view, have consistently failed to address the core issues facing the Valley. His rhetoric, which emphasizes the need for Kashmiri voices to be heard, aligns with the sentiments of many young people who are tired of being pawns in the larger political game.
Political Challenges and Accusations
Despite his growing popularity, Rashid faces considerable opposition. Both the NC and PDP have attempted to discredit him by labeling his party as a “vote-divider,” accusing him of fragmenting the opposition and indirectly benefiting the BJP. These accusations have intensified in the run-up to the elections, as traditional parties struggle to maintain their relevance in a rapidly changing political landscape.
Rashid has dismissed these claims, pointing out that it is the NC and PDP that have divided the vote base through years of neglect and opportunistic politics. His refusal to join forces with either the BJP or the INDIA bloc demonstrates his commitment to remain independent, even as critics question his ability to withstand external pressures.
A Turning Point in Kashmiri Politics?
The 2024 Assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir represent a crucial turning point for the region. As the NC and PDP continue to lose public confidence, Rashid’s rise signals the possibility of a new political era. Whether he can deliver on his promises remains to be seen, but his candidacy reflects the broader disillusionment with the status quo and the desire for authentic leadership.
In a region where political leaders have long been accused of betraying their people, Engineer Rashid’s appeal lies in his unwavering commitment to the Kashmiri cause. For now, he appears to be the best option for a population tired of broken promises and eager for a leader who understands their struggles.
Firdous Nazir is a PHD Scholar researching in Subaltern Studies and Politics in MANUU Hyderabad. He has been writing actively for marginalised groups of India. His interest lies in Literature and Philosophy.
