Jammu, Sep 09 (KNO): Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary Tuesday condemned the detention of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLA Mehraj Malik under the Public Safety Act (PSA), terming it a “murder of democracy.”
Speaking to the media, Choudhary expressed outrage over the incident, highlighting it as an affront to democratic principles and the sacrifices made by the people of Jammu and Kashmir for their rights and representation.
“This is not just an attack on an individual but an insult to the democratic values we hold dear,” said Choudhary.
“The misuse of the PSA against an elected representative like Mehraj Malik is a blatant attempt to suppress dissent and silence voices that advocate for the people. This land has seen countless sacrifices for democracy and such actions undermine the very foundation of our democratic institutions.”
The detention of MLA Mehraj Malik, representing the Doda constituency, has sparked widespread controversy, with allegations of political motivation behind the move.
Choudhary, a senior leader of the National Conference, emphasized that the use of stringent laws like the PSA against elected representatives sets a dangerous precedent and erodes public trust in governance.
He called for an immediate review of the detention and urged authorities to uphold democratic norms and respect the mandate of the people. “The voices of the people, expressed through their elected representatives, cannot be stifled through such draconian measures,” he added.
The Deputy Chief Minister also reiterated his commitment to safeguarding the rights and aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, vowing to raise the issue at the highest levels to ensure justice and accountability—(KNO)