Setback to detained AAP MLA Malik as his counsel quits PSA proceedings

In a sudden twist to the case of provocative statements allegedly made by Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) legislator Mehraj Malik, Senior Advocate Nirmal K Kotwal on Thursday announced that he no longer represents him in the proceedings related to his detention under the Public Safety Act (PSA).

Kotwal’s announcement came after videos allegedly containing controversial remarks attributed to Malik came into circulation.

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In a statement, Kotwal said he was not aware of the videos when he took up the case. The clips in question reportedly show Malik making provocative statements, including claims that Jammu and Kashmir is not a part of India as well as purported praise for slain terrorist Burhan Wani.

Describing the remarks as “extremely insensitive, irresponsible, and detrimental to national security and sovereignty”, Kotwal emphasised that his professional and personal ethics would not allow him to continue as Malik’s counsel in the matter.

“The unity and sovereignty of India are non-negotiable, and any act or statement undermining them cannot be condoned under any circumstances,” Kotwal asserted. He added that his responsibility as a senior advocate was not only towards his client but also to the Constitution and the nation.

“As an officer of the court and as a citizen of this great nation, I place the interest of the Nation above all else,” he said.

The AAP had, on Sunday last, formed a 10-member legal team to challenge the arrest of Mehraj Malik, who has been booked under the Public Safety Act (PSA). Party supremo Arvind Kejriwal had written on X that he was hopeful of Mehraj Malik getting justice and coming out of jail soon.

Malik, a member of the legislative assembly from Doda East constituency in the Jammu division, was arrested after being booked under PSA for allegedly disturbing public order. The PSA was invoked against him immediately after he allegedly used foul language against the deputy commissioner of the Doda district.