Sat Feb 01 00:03:39 UTC 2025: ## Kashmir Authorities Crack Down on Protest for Jailed MP
**Srinagar, February 1, 2025** – Authorities in Kashmir prevented a planned hunger strike and solidarity march by the Awami Ittehad Party (AIP) in support of incarcerated Lok Sabha MP Engineer Rashid, who is on an indefinite hunger strike in Delhi’s Tihar Jail. The AIP alleges that the authorities detained hundreds of its leaders and activists, including senior party figures and Rashid’s son, after denying permission for the protest.
The AIP condemned the crackdown, stating that suppressing peaceful dissent undermines democratic principles. They highlighted MP Rashid’s hunger strike as a response to the denial of his right to attend Parliament. The party emphasized that Rashid’s voice represents the aspirations of the people of Baramulla and Kashmir.
The AIP’s vice-president, G.N. Shaheen, reported that despite approaching both the trial court and the High Court for bail, they have yet to secure Rashid’s release. They plan to reapply for permission to hold a protest, requesting an alternate location if necessary.
The move has drawn criticism from other political figures. Sajad Lone, chief of the J&K Peoples Conference, condemned the authorities’ actions, emphasizing the importance of peaceful dissent and warning against the suppression of civilian protests. The article concludes by noting that J&K Lieutenant-Governor Manoj Sinha oversees public law and order in the Union Territory.
First Piper 