New Rule on MP Engineer Rashid’s Parole Plea

PM Modi to Visit Gujarat for Women’s Empowerment Event

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will embark on a two-day visit to Gujarat starting today, March 7, 2025. The highlight of his visit will be the ‘Lakhpati Didi Sammelan’ in Navsari, an event dedicated to women’s empowerment. The initiative aligns with the central government’s mission to enhance the financial independence of women, particularly in rural areas.

During the visit, PM Modi is expected to interact with beneficiaries of various government schemes and discuss future plans aimed at uplifting women entrepreneurs and self-help groups. The event is a part of the larger ‘Lakhpati Didi’ scheme, which aims to support women in becoming financially self-sufficient by offering skill training and financial assistance.

Apart from the event, the Prime Minister is also expected to address key political and developmental issues concerning Gujarat, ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.

Delhi Court to Rule on MP Engineer Rashid’s Parole Plea

Simultaneously, a crucial legal decision awaits in New Delhi. A Delhi court is set to pronounce its verdict today on the parole plea of jailed Jammu and Kashmir MP Engineer Rashid, who has been lodged in Tihar Jail since 2019 under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). Rashid, who represents the region as an independent MP, had requested parole to attend the upcoming session of Parliament.

The plea was heard on Wednesday by Additional Sessions Judge Chander Jit Singh, who reserved the decision for March 7. Rashid had earlier been granted a one-day parole in February 2024 to attend Parliament, sparking debate over the legal and political ramifications of his case.

His arrest is linked to an alleged terror funding case, and his legal team argues that as a serving MP, he should be allowed to fulfill his parliamentary duties. However, the prosecution opposes the plea, citing security concerns and the seriousness of the charges against him. The court’s decision will have significant political implications, particularly in Jammu and Kashmir.

Political Significance of the Developments

Both PM Modi’s Gujarat visit and Engineer Rashid’s parole plea hold considerable political weight. The Prime Minister’s visit aims to strengthen the BJP’s engagement with women voters, particularly in Gujarat, a key stronghold for the party. His emphasis on women’s empowerment aligns with BJP’s broader electoral strategy.

Meanwhile, the decision on Rashid’s parole is being closely watched, as it may set a precedent for cases involving elected representatives facing serious charges. If granted parole, Rashid’s presence in Parliament could ignite fresh political debates over the treatment of detained lawmakers and the larger issue of civil liberties in conflict-prone regions.