Engineer Rashid Biography: Sheikh Abdul Rashid, commonly known as Engineer Rashid, was born on August 19, 1967, in a small village called Mawar in the Langate area of Kupwara district, Jammu and Kashmir. Growing up in a place where politics was always a hot topic, Rashid became interested in it from an early age.
Education
He went to local schools and later earned a Bachelor of Science degree in 1988. By 1990, he had completed a diploma in civil engineering, setting the stage for his early career as an engineer.
Wife and Children
Engineer Rashid is married to Fahmeeda Begum, and together they have a daughter and two sons, Abrar Rashid and Asrar Rashid. His family has largely stayed away from the political spotlight, allowing Rashid to maintain a more personal and private family life, while he continues to focus on his political career and public responsibilities.
Career as an Engineer
Before entering politics, Engineer Rashid worked as a construction engineer with the Jammu and Kashmir Projects Construction Corporation. For more than ten years, he was involved in various infrastructure and construction projects, which gave him practical experience in managing large projects. This experience later helped him understand the needs and issues faced by the people in terms of development.
Political Career
In 2008, Rashid decided to leave his engineering career behind and focus on politics. He ran as an independent candidate in the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly elections from Langate constituency. Thanks to his strong connection with the local people and his focus on their day-to-day issues, he won the election. Rashid’s ability to relate to the common people made him popular quickly, and he was re-elected in 2014, securing his position as a powerful political figure in the region.
Founding of Jammu and Kashmir Awami Ittehad Party (JK AIP)
In 2013, Rashid founded his own political party called the Jammu and Kashmir Awami Ittehad Party (JK AIP). His goal was to create a platform that would address the specific problems faced by the people of Jammu and Kashmir. The party aimed to push for regional autonomy, better development, and social justice for all. Many people felt that JK AIP offered a new voice, one that wasn’t tied to the major national parties but instead focused on what the locals truly needed.
Rashid quickly became known for his outspoken and fearless nature. As a legislator, he often raised tough questions about human rights, economic growth, and the need for more local governance. His courage to speak out made him a well-known figure in the state, especially among people who felt their concerns were being ignored.
Engineer Rashid Biography: Controversies
He was frequently accused of being anti-national, and some believed that his views were too radical.
Like many political figures in Kashmir, Engineer Rashid faced legal troubles. In 2005, he was arrested by the Special Operations Group (SOG) in Srinagar, accused of supporting militants. He was jailed for three months and 17 days before being released on humanitarian grounds. This marked the beginning of his run-ins with the authorities.
In 2019, things escalated when Rashid was arrested by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) on charges of terror funding. Since August 9, 2019, Rashid has been held in Tihar Jail.
Victory in 2024 Lok Sabha Elections
Even though Engineer Rashid was in jail, his popularity with the people remained strong. In the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, he contested from the Baramulla constituency and achieved a major victory, defeating former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. This victory surprised many and showed that Rashid still had widespread support, especially among the common people who valued his dedication to their causes.
On September 10, 2024, a Delhi court granted Engineer Rashid interim bail until October 2, 2024, giving him the opportunity to campaign for the upcoming Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections. The court’s decision came with certain conditions, including restrictions on media interactions and a prohibition against attempting to influence any witnesses.
Net Worth
In 2024, Engineer Rashid’s net worth is estimated to be around ₹1.5 crore. His assets include a 41,072 sq ft plot of non-agricultural land in his hometown of Langate and a house in Srinagar valued at ₹90 lakh.
Conclusion
Engineer Rashid’s ability to connect with the grassroots and speak up for the issues that affect his people has made him a key figure in Jammu and Kashmir politics. While many politicians shy away from controversial issues, Rashid has never hesitated to express his views, even if it meant facing legal consequences.
Engineer Rashid Biography will be updated here as new details emerge.
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