Delhi HC to hear Engineer Rashid's plea March 25

The Delhi High Court will hear Jammu and Kashmir MP Engineer Rashid's request to attend Parliament on March 25. Rashid is currently in jail and facing serious charges related to terror funding. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has opposed Rashid's request for interim bail. They argue that he should not be allowed to attend Parliament while in custody, as he could potentially influence witnesses. Rashid is charged under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). On March 19, a trial court is set to rule on Rashid's regular bail plea. The NIA's response to Rashid's appeal was submitted recently. They assert that granting him temporary freedom to attend Parliament would misuse his position as an MP. Rashid's defense lawyer is seeking custody parole, similar to a previous two-day permission he received. The purpose of custody parole is to allow a prisoner to attend specific events under police escort. Rashid has been in Tihar Jail since 2019 following his arrest in the terror-funding case. Rashid, who won a seat in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, is accused of funding separatists and terror groups in Jammu and Kashmir. His legal troubles began after his name was mentioned during the investigation of a co-accused businessman.