NIA Opposes Bail for Engineer Rashid in 2017 Terror Funding Case

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) opposed the bail application of Jammu and Kashmir MP Engineer Rashid, claiming he may tamper with evidence and influence witnesses in a 2017 terror funding case. Rashid has been in jail since 2019 on charges under the UAPA. The court reserved its order.

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has strongly opposed the bail application of Lok Sabha MP from Jammu and Kashmir, Engineer Rashid, in a Delhi court. The agency claimed that Rashid could potentially tamper with evidence and influence witnesses, potentially obstructing justice in a 2017 terror funding case.

The special NIA court reserved the decision on Rashid's bail plea, with the verdict expected on September 4. Rashid has been incarcerated since 2019 and previously defeated former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls.

NIA officials argued that the offenses Rashid is accused of appear to be prima facie true and, if released, he might misuse his liberty. The agency also mentioned an ongoing process to reduce the number of witnesses, aiming to expedite the trial. The case involves high-profile separatist leaders and terrorist outfits allegedly plotting to secure Jammu and Kashmir's secession from India.