Jammu: In a significant legal development, the High Court in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) has struck down the detention of MLA Mehraj Malik and ordered his immediate release. According to Beyond Time News, the court ruled that his detention under the Public Safety Act (PSA) was unlawful.
Detention Challenged in Court
Mehraj Malik, who represents Doda East and serves as a leader of the Aam Aadmi Party in the region, was taken into custody on September 8. Authorities had booked him under the controversial Public Safety Act.
He challenged his detention by filing a habeas corpus petition on September 24. In the petition, he argued that the move was unjustified and demanded compensation of Rs 5 crore for his imprisonment.
Court Declares Detention Unlawful
After reviewing the case, the High Court ruled in Malik’s favour and directed authorities to release him without delay. The decision marks a legal victory for the MLA and raises questions about the use of preventive detention laws.
Malik is currently held at Kathua jail and is expected to be released following the court’s order.
Legal Team Welcomes Decision
His lawyer and party spokesperson, Appu Singh Slathia, confirmed the development while speaking to the media. He described the verdict as a major win for justice.
He also thanked the legal team, including senior counsel Rahul Pant, Muzaffar Khan, Sheikh Shakeel, M. Zulkarnain, and Tariq Ahmed, for their efforts in presenting the case effectively.
Read more:Crackdown Intensifies in IIOJK as Property Seizures and Detentions Rise
Broader Implications
The ruling highlights ongoing concerns regarding the use of preventive detention laws like the PSA. Legal experts believe such decisions could influence future cases and strengthen legal protections for elected representatives.
What’s Next
With the court’s order in place, attention now turns to Malik’s release and the possible legal proceedings regarding his compensation claim. The case may als
