Srinagar, Feb 23 — The Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh High Court on Monday reserved its order on a habeas corpus petition challenging the detention of AAP MLA Mehraj Malik under the Public Safety Act (PSA).
Malik, who heads the Aam Aadmi Party’s Jammu and Kashmir unit, has been in detention since September 8 last year and is currently lodged in Kathua jail. His counsel confirmed that the matter was heard by Justice Mohammad Yousuf Wani, who has reserved the case for pronouncement of orders.
“The court has granted both parties one week’s time to file a written synopsis or any additional submissions, should they choose to do so,” Advocate Appu Singh Slathia said after the hearing.
Malik had approached the High Court on September 24, filing a habeas corpus petition seeking quashing of his detention and compensation of ₹5 crore. The petition contests the grounds cited for invoking the PSA, which authorities have said was necessitated on account of alleged disturbance to public order.
Slathia, who is also an AAP spokesperson, described the proceedings as part of a prolonged legal battle. “It has been a long and challenging legal journey, but we remain hopeful and confident in the judicial process,” she said.
She also appealed to party workers and Malik’s supporters to maintain calm. “We urge everyone to stay positive and patient as the court considers the matter,” Slathia added.
Malik’s detention followed allegations he made against Doda Deputy Commissioner Harvinder Singh, accusing him of official misconduct and abuse of power. The officer has denied the allegations.