Abdul Rashid Sheikh: NIA opposes bail plea for Baramulla MP

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has opposed the regular bail plea of Baramulla MP Abdul Rashid Sheikh, also known as Engineer Rashid. The agency cited the ongoing trial in a stone-pelting conspiracy case in Jammu and Kashmir, noting that two crucial witnesses have yet to be examined.

Sheikh has been in custody since August 2019 in connection with a case initiated by the NIA in 2017. During the High Court hearing, the Division Bench of Justices Prathiba M Singh and Vikas Mahajan inquired whether the MP could be released under stringent conditions, such as a requirement to remain in Delhi.

Counsel for Sheikh argued that his case is distinct from other co-accused individuals and highlighted that he has been in custody for approximately six and a half years. While he was previously discharged by a trial court for certain offences under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), charges for conspiracy have been framed. The court has scheduled the matter for rebuttal arguments on November 3.