J&K High Court Adjourns Hearing in AAP MLA Mehraj Malik’s PSA Detention Case to February 19

J&K High Court Adjourns Hearing in AAP MLA Mehraj Malik’s PSA Detention Case to February 19

The High Court of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh on Thursday adjourned further proceedings in the habeas corpus petition filed by Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLA Mehraj Malik, who has challenged his detention under the Public Safety Act (PSA). The matter will now be heard on February 19.

Justice Mohammad Yousuf Wani heard submissions from senior state counsels Sunil Sethi and Monica Kohli during the session held in Jammu. Following the proceedings, Advocate Appu Singh Slathia, part of the legal team representing Malik, told reporters that the case has been listed for continuation of arguments next week.

Detained Under PSA Since September

Mehraj Malik, the AAP legislator from Doda in the Chenab Valley region, was detained in September last year under orders issued by the District Magistrate, Doda. The detention was carried out under the provisions of the Public Safety Act, which allows authorities to hold individuals without formal charges for up to two years on grounds related to public order and security.

The AAP has contested the detention by filing a habeas corpus petition before the High Court, seeking quashing of the detention order and Malik’s release. In certain representations, demands for compensation have also been raised.

Court Proceedings So Far

The High Court had earlier issued notices to government officials, including the Principal Secretary (Home) and the District Magistrate, Doda, seeking their responses after admitting the petition in September 2025.

Part of the state’s arguments were heard last week, and Thursday’s session marked a continuation of the administration’s defence of the detention order. The bench part-heard the submissions and scheduled February 19 for completion of arguments.

The case has witnessed multiple adjournments since its admission, reflecting the detailed examination of the grounds of detention and procedural aspects involved.

Political Reactions and Legal Scrutiny

Malik, who also serves as president of the AAP’s Jammu and Kashmir unit, represents the Doda constituency. His detention has drawn criticism from several political quarters, with opposition leaders questioning the invocation of the PSA against a sitting elected representative.

The Public Safety Act continues to face judicial scrutiny in various cases across Jammu and Kashmir. Courts have frequently examined issues related to the validity of detention grounds, adherence to due process, and proportionality of action.

With arguments still underway, the High Court is expected to further deliberate on the legality of the detention when the matter resumes on February 19.