Why Was Doda MLA Sanjay Singh Denied a Meeting with Farooq Abdullah in Srinagar?
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Synopsis
In a shocking turn of events, Dr. Farooq Abdullah was barred from meeting AAP leader Sanjay Singh, currently under house arrest in Srinagar. This incident has sparked widespread condemnation from opposition parties, highlighting growing concerns over authoritarian practices in the region.
Key Takeaways
- Dr. Farooq Abdullah attempted to visit Sanjay Singh but was denied access.
- Opposition parties condemned the government's actions as authoritarian.
- The PSA allows detention without trial, raising democracy concerns.
- Normal life in Doda has been disrupted due to authorities' restrictions.
- Political leaders are advocating for the MLA's legal defense.
Srinagar, Sep 11 (NationPress) - The former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir and president of the National Conference (NC), Dr. Farooq Abdullah, faced restrictions on Thursday when he attempted to visit the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader, Sanjay Singh, who is currently under house arrest in Srinagar.
According to reports, Dr. Abdullah arrived at the government guest house located in the Sonwar area of the city, hoping to connect with Sanjay Singh following news of his detention.
However, security forces stationed outside the guest house prevented Dr. Farooq Abdullah from entering the premises.
Sanjay Singh expressed his disappointment on X, stating, “It is extremely unfortunate that Dr. Farooq Abdullah, who has held the Chief Minister position multiple times in Jammu and Kashmir, sought to meet me at the government guest house after learning of my house arrest by the police, but was denied entry. If this isn't dictatorship, what is?”
In response, various opposition parties in Kashmir labeled this action as ‘authoritarian’.
While Dr. Farooq Abdullah has not yet released an official statement regarding this incident, reports indicate his dissatisfaction with the decision to bar him from meeting the AAP leader.
Authorities stated that such restrictions were necessary to uphold law and order in the city.
Meanwhile, daily life in the Doda district experienced significant disruptions on Thursday as officials mandated the closure of schools until September 14 and suspended Internet services to ensure peace and order in the area.
Police and CRPF forces were heavily deployed in regions affected by protests in Doda district following the arrest of the MLA under the PSA, which allows authorities to detain individuals without judicial oversight for up to two years.
The District Magistrate of Doda confirmed Mehraj Malik's detention under the PSA, asserting that it was essential for maintaining order.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, former CM Mehbooba Mufti, People’s Conference (PC) leader Sajad Lone, and various other political figures, excluding the BJP, condemned the MLA's arrest.
Omar Abdullah visited Mehraj Malik's father on Wednesday, claiming that matters related to the MLA could be addressed in the Legislative Assembly and criticized the PSA detention as detrimental to democracy.
Dr. Farooq Abdullah remarked that while the MLA's interaction with the District Magistrate was regrettable, it did not warrant his detention under the PSA.
The District Magistrate of Doda notified the Assembly Speaker regarding the MLA’s detention in accordance with established procedures. A statement from the Speaker’s office clarified that the communication from the District Magistrate was procedural and did not imply approval of the detention.
Leaders from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) visited Mehraj Malik’s father, assuring him of their commitment to fight for the MLA’s release legally.
Point of View
The incident involving Dr. Farooq Abdullah and Sanjay Singh highlights a concerning trend in Jammu and Kashmir, where political freedoms seem increasingly compromised. It is essential that democratic principles are upheld for a stable and just society.
NationPress
21/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened during Dr. Farooq Abdullah's visit?
Dr. Farooq Abdullah was denied entry to meet Sanjay Singh, who is under house arrest, raising concerns about authoritarianism.
Why was Sanjay Singh placed under house arrest?
Sanjay Singh was detained reportedly to maintain law and order, although details surrounding the arrest remain contentious.
What has been the reaction from political leaders?
Opposition leaders, including Omar Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti, have condemned the detention, labeling it detrimental to democracy.
What are the implications of the PSA?
The PSA allows for detention without judicial oversight for up to two years, raising serious concerns about civil liberties.
How has daily life been affected in Doda?
Authorities have closed schools and suspended Internet services in Doda to maintain peace amid ongoing protests.
