Thu Sep 12 15:58:46 UTC 2024: ## AIP Supremo Rashid Denies BJP Proxy Allegations, Offers Support to INDIA Bloc on Article 370 Condition

**Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir:** Awami Ittehad Party (AIP) supremo Sheikh Abdul Rashid, known as Engineer Rashid, has refuted allegations of being a “BJP proxy” for the upcoming Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections. He has declared his willingness to support the INDIA bloc if they promise to restore Article 370 in the union territory upon assuming power at the Centre.

Speaking to the media on Thursday, Rashid, the Lok Sabha MP from Baramulla, said, “If INDIA alliance assures us that it will restore Article 370 when it comes to power in Delhi, I will tell every candidate of mine to pledge each vote of their supporters for them.”

Rashid, who was released from jail on September 11 after being granted interim bail to campaign for the assembly elections, reiterated his stance that India needs to resolve the Kashmir issue to be perceived as a global leader. He asserted that Kashmir’s resolution is crucial for India to achieve its ambition of becoming a “Vishwaguru.”

He also accused the BJP of making him a “victim” and asserted that he was pressured to support a BJP proxy candidate in north Kashmir, which he refused.

Rashid further criticized National Conference leader and former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for not focusing on people’s issues, accusing him of “lowering his cap” in Ganderbal and contesting from two seats.

This declaration by Rashid, a prominent voice in Jammu and Kashmir politics, could significantly influence the upcoming assembly elections. His condition of restoring Article 370 for his support has added a new dimension to the political landscape and will likely spark heated discussions in the coming days.

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