A Delhi court grants custody parole to Engineer Rashid, who defeated former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls, to allow him to take oath as a member of Parliament on July 05. The National Investigation Agency has given consent for Rashid to take the oath, but with certain restrictions such as not speaking or interacting with media and not having access to internet or posting anything on social media. Rashid has been in jail since 2019 and is currently lodged in Tihar jail.
Convicted Politician Engineer Rashid Granted Parole for Lok Sabha Oath Taking
Background
Engineer Rashid is a former member of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly and the Legislative Council. He was arrested by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) in 2019 on charges of sedition and terror financing. He was subsequently convicted and sentenced to seven years in prison.
In the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, Rashid defied expectations by defeating former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who was considered a strong favorite. However, his victory was marred by the fact that he was in jail and unable to campaign.
Parole Granted
On July 4, 2023, a Delhi court granted Rashid custody parole to allow him to take oath as a member of Parliament on July 5. The NIA gave consent for Rashid's release, but with certain restrictions.
Restrictions
FAQs
1. Why was Rashid arrested? Rashid was arrested on charges of sedition and terror financing under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.
2. What is the evidence against Rashid? The NIA has alleged that Rashid received funding from Pakistan-based terror groups and used it to support separatists in Jammu and Kashmir.
3. Why was Rashid granted parole? Rashid was granted parole to allow him to take oath as a member of Parliament.
4. What are the restrictions on Rashid's parole? Rashid is not allowed to speak or interact with the media, does not have access to the internet or social media, and must return to jail on July 6.
5. Will Rashid be released from jail after taking the oath? No, Rashid will return to Tihar jail after taking the oath and will continue to serve his sentence.
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