Don't form government after poll results, instead press for J&K's statehood: Engineer Rashid to parties:

Baramulla MP Engineer Rashid has suggested that political parties in J&K should not form government after the announcement of results on Tuesday. Instead, they should press for the restoration of statehood, he said.

"Restoration of statehood is vital for the dignity and rights of the people of J&K. Until that is achieved, I appeal to all political parties - National Conference, People's Democratic Party, People's Conference, Apni Party and others - to unite, at least on the issue of statehood," said Rashid, adding, "Let us send a message to the Centre that no one will form a government or support any government until statehood is restored."



After over five years, Rashid was released from Tihar jail on September 10 on interim bail for 22 days, which was further extended earlier this month till October 12.

In response to Rashid's assertions, National Conference vice president Omar Abdullah accused Rashid of playing straight into the hands of BJP as they would like to extend the central rule as long as possible.


"The man goes to Delhi for 24 hours and comes back to play straight into the hands of BJP. BJP would like nothing more than to extend central rule in J&K if they are not in a position to form a government," said Omar Abdullah.

BJP has promised restoration of statehood and maintained that Article 370 is history and can never be restored. Regional parties like NC, PDP and others have asserted that they will strive for the restoration of statehood and Article 370 and 35(A).

"Undoubtedly, our priority is the restoration of Article 370, 35A, and the resolution of the Kashmir issue, but the immediate need should be the restoration of statehood," said Rasheed.