Er Rashid knew about Art 370 revocation in 2018 but stayed silent, claims Omar Abdullah

Srinagar, Sep 25: National Conference (NC) Vice President, Omar Abdullah alleged on Wednesday that Baramulla Parliamentarian Er Rashid was aware in 2018 of the government's intention to revoke Article 370 but chose to remain silent instead of taking legal action.

Speaking at a public rally, Omar as per KNO accused the Awami Ittihad Party (AIP) chief of engaging in emotional politics and being directed by the Government of India (GoI) to manipulate the people of Kashmir.

“It’s strange that Er Rashid, in recent interviews, claimed he met Prime Minister Narendra Modi for an hour, during which Modi asked him to help in scrapping Article 370. Rashid responded by saying he supported Modi in all his good decisions,” he said.

The former chief minister added, "Had he (Er Rashid) raised the issue in 2018, legal steps could have been taken to challenge the move. He could have approached the Supreme Court. Perhaps there might have been a verdict that would have saved Kashmir’s special status, flag, and constitution. But he remained quiet, and now, in 2019, the people are suffering.”

Quoting from a famous poem, the NC leader said, “Lamhoon Ne Khataa Ki thi, Sadiyoon Ne Saza Paayi” (when for a mistake made by a moment, centuries were punished). He further accused Rashid of being assigned by the central government to manipulate the emotions of the people and divide votes in Kashmir.

“Er Rashid claims to further the Hurriyat’s agenda, but his words and actions tell a different story. He aligns himself with those who dismantle the Hurriyat’s identity and with individuals like Sandeep Mawa, who publicly brief the press while awaiting Yasin Malik’s hanging,” Abdullah said.

Omar challenged Er Rashid to clarify his position on forming an alliance with the BJP if needed to form a government. “I am still waiting for that speech from him where he clearly states he won’t support the BJP. He hasn’t uttered a word,” he said.