“Lift Jamia Masjid Curbs, Start Dialogue with Jammu Kashmir People”: MP Er Rashid in Parliament | Kashmir Life

SRINAGAR: Er Rashid, Member of Parliament from Baramulla, on Tuesday raised a wide range of issues concerning Jammu and Kashmir in Parliament, focusing on religious freedoms, development, employment and public sentiment.

Opening his remarks, Rashid questioned what he described as shifting narratives, referring to the release of Sonam Wangchuk and asking when individuals earlier labelled as foreign agents were now being seen differently.

Referring to recent religious occasions, he extended greetings to people across Kashmir, noting that he was addressing the House while in custody.

He strongly criticised the closure of the Jamia Masjid Srinagar, condemning restrictions on prayers and questioning why religious gatherings are facilitated elsewhere but not at the historic mosque.

On development, Rashid appreciated the efforts of the Railways and expressed confidence in the leadership of the Railway Minister, voicing hope that issues related to the proposed Baramulla–Uri rail link would be addressed. He also congratulated engineers and workers involved in the construction of the Chenab bridge, describing it as a significant achievement.

Highlighting cultural identity, he suggested naming a train after prominent Kashmiri figures such as Habba Khatoon, Lal Ded, Sheikh-ul-Alam or Sultan-ul-Arifeen to reflect regional sentiments.

Raising employment concerns, he sought at least a two per cent reservation in jobs for the region, citing prolonged hardships faced by people due to militancy since 1999.

Rashid also called for improved connectivity and engagement across borders, urging steps to facilitate access to the historic Sharda Peeth for devotees, particularly Kashmiri Pandits.

Emphasising the need for confidence-building, he said infrastructure development alone cannot bridge emotional gaps, stressing the importance of winning people’s trust.

In his concluding remarks, Rashid called for an end to hardships in Kashmir, urged dialogue with the people, welcomed Wangchuk’s release, and reiterated his demand for lifting restrictions on Jamia Masjid.