What Charges Have Been Framed Against Former J&K HC Bar Association Chief Mian Qayoom in the Babar Qadri Murder Case?
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Synopsis
In a significant development, Mian Abdul Qayoom, the former president of the J&K High Court Bar Association, faces serious allegations in the murder case of advocate Babar Qadri, stirring discussions on legal and political implications.
Key Takeaways
- Mian Abdul Qayoom has been formally charged in a high-profile murder case.
- The charges are based on the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.
- Babar Qadri was critical of the Kashmir Bar Association practices.
- The case has been transferred to the State Investigation Agency due to intimidation concerns.
- Qadri was murdered by assailants disguised as clients.
Srinagar, Aug 18 (NationPress) On Monday, the special designated court established under the NIA Act officially laid out charges against former president of the Jammu and Kashmir High Court Bar Association, Mian Abdul Qayoom, concerning the murder of advocate Babar Qadri.
The court has formally charged him under Sections 16, 18, and 38 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967.
The State Investigation Agency (SIA) previously submitted the chargesheet in this case.
Advocate Babar Qadri, who was vocal about the misuse of the Kashmir Bar Association platform, was tragically murdered on September 24, 2020, at his home in Zahidpora, Hawal, Srinagar.
He was attacked by gunmen disguised as clients shortly after returning from court. Qadri was not just a practicing lawyer; he was also a regular TV panelist and a founder of a dissenting group known as the Kashmir Lawyers Club.
He frequently criticized Mian Qayoom, accusing him of using the Kashmir Bar Association to promote a secessionist agenda.
The case was reassigned to the SIA in July 2023, amid fears of interference and intimidation in Srinagar.
Mian Qayoom was apprehended on June 25, 2024, identified as the main conspirator in Qadri’s murder, allegedly orchestrated by terrorists from The Resistance Front (TRF), a faction linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT).
His habeas corpus petition, along with challenges to his arrest and remand, were dismissed by the Jammu and Kashmir High Court in February 2025.
The designated court officially framed charges against Mian Qayoom under Sections 16, 18, and 38 of the UAPA.
The accused is represented by Senior Advocates R.A. Jan and Z.A. Qureshi, along with Advocate Zulkernain Sheikh. The prosecution is led by a team of Special Public Prosecutors, with support from an officer representing the SIA.
Point of View
The unfolding of this case highlights the complexities of law and order in Jammu and Kashmir. It raises significant concerns about the intersection of legal practices and political agendas, while also revealing the urgent need for judicial accountability in high-profile cases.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the charges against Mian Qayoom?
Mian Qayoom has been charged under Sections 16, 18, and 38 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967, related to the murder of advocate Babar Qadri.
Who was Babar Qadri?
Babar Qadri was a prominent advocate known for his critical stance on the misuse of the Kashmir Bar Association and was involved in the founding of the Kashmir Lawyers Club.
When was Babar Qadri murdered?
Babar Qadri was murdered on September 24, 2020, at his residence in Zahidpora, Hawal, Srinagar.
What was the role of the State Investigation Agency?
The State Investigation Agency filed the chargesheet in this case and took over the investigation due to concerns of intimidation.
What legal representation does Mian Qayoom have?
Mian Qayoom is represented by Senior Advocates R.A. Jan and Z.A. Qureshi, as well as Advocate Zulkernain Sheikh.
