AAP MLA Mehraj Malik files habeas corpus plea against PSA detention in J&K High Court.
JAMMU, Sept 24: Jammu and Kashmir Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) president and MLA Mehraj Malik on Wednesday moved the High Court, challenging his detention under the Public Safety Act (PSA). He also sought ₹5 crore compensation for alleged violation of his personal liberty.
Admitting the petition, Justice Chatterji Koul issued notices to the Principal Secretary (Home Department), the District Magistrate of Doda, the Senior Superintendent of Police, and the Superintendent of Kathua Jail to file their responses by October 14, the next date of hearing. The notices were accepted in open court by Senior AAG Monika Kohli on behalf of the government.
Malik, who represents the Doda constituency, was detained on September 8 for allegedly disturbing public order and subsequently lodged in Kathua Jail. This marks the first instance of a sitting MLA being booked under PSA, a law that permits detention without charge or trial for up to two years. His arrest had triggered protests in Doda and attracted criticism from several political parties in the Union Territory.
Appearing for Malik, senior advocate Rahul Pant argued that since Malik is an elected representative, the matter should be heard urgently as his presence is required for carrying out public duties. The petition also alleges personal bias on the part of the Doda District Magistrate in issuing the detention order. Malik’s legal team, including advocates S S Ahmed, Appu Singh Slathia, M Zulkarnain Chowdhary and Joginder Singh Thakur, supported the plea.
In addition to challenging the PSA detention, Malik has sought ₹5 crore in damages from the government for unlawfully curtailing his liberty and preventing him from discharging his duties as an MLA.
📲 Follow Jammu News Portal on WhatsAppSource: Agencies
Labels: AAP, Mehraj Malik, PSA, J&K Politics
Tags: #MehrajMalik #AAP #PublicSafetyAct #JammuAndKashmir #HighCourt
Disclaimer: This news report is based on inputs from verified agencies and public sources. Jammu News Portal strives for factual and authentic reporting, though we do not take responsibility for any inadvertent errors. Readers are encouraged to verify official communications for complete details.
Post a Comment