SRINAGAR: As protests continue across various parts of Jammu and Kashmir against the detention of AAP’s J&K President and sitting MLA Mehraj Malik, senior National Conference leader and former Chief Minister Dr. Farooq Abdullah on Wednesday broke his silence on the issue.
Speaking to reporters during his visit to Baramulla, Dr. Abdullah squarely blamed the administration led by the Lieutenant Governor (LG), saying, “The police and administration are under the LG. Whatever happens there, the LG will be responsible for it.”
The remarks come amidst growing outrage over Malik’s detention under the Public Safety Act (PSA), which has been widely criticized by political parties and civil society groups. Protests erupted in parts of Doda and Bhaderwah soon after the PSA order was executed. His supporters claim the move is politically motivated and aimed at silencing dissent.
Dr. Abdullah further said that such actions will not help the Union Territory move forward. “If they think jailing elected representatives will silence the voices of people, they are mistaken. Democracy is about dialogue, not suppression,” he added.
The former CM also appealed for restraint and urged the administration to reconsider its approach. “This is not how you build peace. Detaining leaders without proper justification will only widen the trust deficit,” he warned.
Malik’s family and party colleagues have also approached the court, challenging the PSA order. Meanwhile, political temperature in the region continues to rise, with multiple parties demanding his immediate release.
As the situation unfolds, all eyes are on the LG administration and whether it will respond to the growing political pressure.
