Sheikh Abdul Rashid, a Lok Sabha MP from Jammu and Kashmir’s Baramulla, announced his plan to sit on a two-day hunger strike while incarcerated at Tihar Jail. He made this announcement on October 1, the eve of Gandhi Jayanti, aiming to highlight the enduring significance of Mahatma Gandhi’s principle of non-violence.
In a poignant handwritten letter addressed to ‘Bapu’, Rashid expressed his belief that the world is in a dire state of unrest. He accused nations of perpetuating violence while claiming to strive for peace, emphasizing that Gandhi’s teachings of non-violence are relevant now more than ever.
“Those who vocally support your message, Bapu, often contradict their actions,” Rashid stated in his correspondence, as he discussed his anguish regarding Kashmir’s current socio-political climate.
He elaborated on Gandhi’s role during the Partition and how he viewed Kashmir as a symbol of hope during turbulent times. “Today, we, the people of Kashmir, face unjust labels including anti-national and militant. Every Muslim holds their faith close, and no true follower of Islam can be radical,” he articulated, emphasizing Kashmiris’ fight for their rights amid rampant narratives that demonize them.
Rashid lamented, “Nobody seems inclined to acknowledge our rightful political and human rights.” He criticized a culture of silence about issues concerning the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, suggesting fear of repercussions prevents honest discourse.
Reflecting on the plight of Kashmiri Pandits and the struggles of border residents, he recalled that Kashmiri Muslims have historically protected Pandits and are now witnessing their ongoing displacement as refugees. “Tihar Jail has become a sanctuary for all those who wish to pursue Gandhi’s vision of non-violence in their quest for legitimate rights,” he added.
In his letter, Rashid vehemently condemned what he described as divisive politics undermining Gandhi’s legacy. He remarked on the establishment of “draconian policies” replacing the humane vision of non-violence. “Fascist forces delight in our despair, interpreting our commitment to non-violence as a sign of weakness,” he argued.
Rashid inquired whether Gandhi’s spirit finds unrest in observing the conditions endured by Kashmiris since 1989. He articulated that instead of fostering harmony, Muslims are often branded as outsiders, manipulated by derogatory labels that fuel division. “The great Indian state has no need for external enemies; ultranationalists inside our borders accomplish far worse,” he asserted.
To remind the nation of Gandhi’s powerful teachings, Sheikh Abdul Rashid will embark on his hunger strike from 10 AM on October 1, continuing until 10 AM on October 3. His actions seek to revitalize discourse around non-violence and the urgent need for empathy and understanding among conflicts worldwide.