Why Are NC MLAs Protesting Outside the J&K Assembly for AAP's Mehraj Malik?
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Synopsis
National Conference MLAs held a silent protest outside the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly, demanding the release of Doda MLA Mehraj Malik. This demonstration highlights concerns over democratic representation and the implications of the Public Safety Act on elected officials. The ongoing situation raises questions about the health of democracy in the region.
Key Takeaways
- NC MLAs protested for the release of Mehraj Malik.
- His detention is seen as a threat to democratic representation.
- Malik's arrest was made under the Public Safety Act.
- The High Court has mandated his participation in the Rajya Sabha elections.
- The protest highlights concerns about democracy in Jammu and Kashmir.
Srinagar, Oct 23 (NationPress) On Thursday, members of the National Conference (NC) staged a silent demonstration outside the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly, calling for the release of the detained Doda MLA, Mehraj Malik.
Prior to entering the Assembly for the autumn session, NC MLAs expressed their discontent through this silent protest, advocating for the release of the Aam Aadmi Party MLA. Malik was apprehended under the Public Safety Act (PSA) for allegedly endangering peace and public order in Doda.
The protesting legislators displayed placards that read ‘Free Mehraj Malik’ and ‘Restore Doda’s Representation’. They observed a moment of silence to emphasize their stance before speaking to the media.
NC’s Chief Spokesperson, Tanvir Sadiq, remarked that Malik's ongoing detention is unwarranted and strips the people of Doda of their rightful representation in the Assembly. “We demand Mehraj Malik's unconditional release. He was elected by the people of Doda, who deserve a voice in the House. His detention under the PSA is undemocratic and contradicts the essence of public mandate,” the spokesperson stated.
The NC leader further noted that the party has consistently raised this concern with the government, but has yet to receive a satisfactory reply.
“Keeping an elected representative away from the House sends a negative signal about democracy in Jammu and Kashmir,” he added.
Recently, the J&K and Ladakh High Court instructed authorities to ensure that Mehraj Malik is allowed to vote in the upcoming Rajya Sabha elections scheduled for Friday. It was later confirmed that the MLA would receive a postal ballot to cast his vote in the Rajya Sabha polls.
Voting for four Rajya Sabha seats is taking place here on Friday, with all elected MLAs eligible to participate. The NC has nominated four candidates for these positions, while the BJP has put forth three candidates, including the party’s J&K president, Sat Sharma.
Point of View
It's crucial to recognize the significance of representation in a democratic setup. The detainment of elected officials like Mehraj Malik raises serious concerns about the principles of democracy in Jammu and Kashmir. The National Conference's protest underlines the urgency for a just resolution to ensure that the voices of the people are heard and respected.
NationPress
23/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Mehraj Malik arrested?
Mehraj Malik was arrested under the Public Safety Act for allegedly threatening peace and law and order in Doda district.
What are the demands of the NC MLAs?
The NC MLAs are demanding the unconditional release of Mehraj Malik and the restoration of representation for the people of Doda.
What does the Public Safety Act entail?
The Public Safety Act allows for the detention of individuals without trial if they are deemed a threat to public safety.
How did the High Court respond to Malik's detention?
The J&K and Ladakh High Court directed authorities to ensure that Mehraj Malik is allowed to vote in the Rajya Sabha elections.
What implications does this situation have for democracy in J&K?
The continued detention of elected representatives raises serious questions about the state of democracy and the integrity of the electoral process in Jammu and Kashmir.
