Court Quashes PSA Against MLA Mehraj Malik, Orders Immediate Release, Leaders Call Detention ‘Misuse of Law’

Jammu, April 27, KNT: The High Court of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh has allowed a habeas corpus petition filed on behalf of Doda East MLA Mehraj Malik, quashing his detention under the Public Safety Act (PSA) and directing his immediate release.

The court set aside the preventive detention order, holding that the grounds cited for invoking the PSA did not sustain legal scrutiny, according to details available.

With the order, authorities have been directed to release Malik forthwith, unless required in connection with any other case.

The petition had challenged the legality of the detention, arguing that the grounds were insufficient and did not justify continued custody under preventive detention laws.

The ruling marks a significant development in the case, with the court affirming the legal safeguards available against arbitrary detention.

Political reactions poured after the High Court quashed the Public Safety Act (PSA) detention of Doda East MLA Mehraj Malik, with several leaders terming the detention unjustified and raising concerns over the use of the law.

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said Malik should never have been detained under PSA, calling it a “gross misuse” of the law. He expressed hope that those responsible would reflect on the court’s decision and the manner in which such laws are applied.

Apni Party president Altaf Bukhari said the decision reaffirmed faith in the rule of law and described the court’s order as long-awaited. He also extended congratulations to Malik and his family, and referred to the electorate of Doda that had chosen him in the 2024 elections.

CPI(M) leader Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami termed the detention a misuse of a “draconian law,” stating that the case once again highlighted the need to review the application of PSA.

The reactions followed the High Court’s decision to set aside Malik’s detention under the preventive law and direct his release.

The development has triggered a broader political debate over the use of PSA in Jammu and Kashmir, with leaders across parties calling for greater scrutiny and accountability in its application. [KNT]