Father of Detained AAP MLA Pleads: “I want my son back” Now

In Jammu, Shamas Udin Malik, father of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLA Mehraj Malik, has made an emotional plea for his son's immediate release from detention under the Public Safety Act (PSA). Mehraj, an elected representative from the Doda constituency, was arrested on Monday and is currently held in Kathua jail for allegedly disturbing public peace.

This detention has sparked widespread protests in Doda, leading to prohibitory orders, the arrest of over 70 individuals, and injuries to eight police personnel during clashes that erupted on Tuesday. Shamas Udin met Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, expressing his exhaustion with legal battles and urging swift intervention.

During the meeting, Shamas Udin highlighted the personal toll of his son's imprisonment, stating, "I gave my son to the people; now I want him back." He emphasised the family's struggles, noting that Mehraj has four daughters and a distraught mother who is constantly crying. Shamas Udin requested the Chief Minister to discuss the matter with the Lieutenant Governor and initiate a probe, arguing that court proceedings are too lengthy and burdensome for the family to handle alone.

Shamas Udin described the arrest as a "personal vendetta" orchestrated by the Deputy Commissioner of Doda, stemming from a dispute over public issues. He claimed that the conflict escalated when Mehraj reacted angrily to an elderly woman's distress, but external influences turned it into a major issue. Furthermore, he strongly refuted allegations that his son hurt Sikh sentiments, pointing to Mehraj's upbringing among Sikhs and his positive relationships with the community, including neighbours and colleagues.

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This incident has intensified political tensions in Jammu and Kashmir, with authorities justifying the PSA as necessary for maintaining public order due to Mehraj's activities being prejudicial to stability. Shamas Udin also sought help from AAP leader Sanjay Singh, reiterating that his priority is his son's return, regardless of political affiliations. The case underscores ongoing debates about the use of stringent laws against elected officials.

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