NIA Opposes Bail for J&K MP Engineer Rashid

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has opposed the bail plea of newly elected Jammu and Kashmir MP Engineer Rashid, citing concerns that he may misuse his position to influence witnesses and obstruct justice if released. The NIA referenced past incidents where Rashid misused telephone privileges while incarcerated in Tihar Jail, leading to restrictions on his call rights. Additionally, they alleged that Rashid has defended terrorism as a 'political cause,' indicating a troubling alignment with extremist views and involvement in efforts by Pakistani and secessionist groups to frame terrorism as a political struggle in Jammu and Kashmir. Rashid, who recently won the Baramulla seat in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, has been in jail since 2019 under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) for his alleged role in a 2017 terror funding case. The Patiala House Court has reserved its decision on his bail application, expected to be pronounced on September 4.