Srinagar, April 27: Awami Itihaad Party (AIP) Chief Spokesperson Inam Un Nabi on Monday welcomed the quashment of the Public Safety Act (PSA) against Doda MLA Mehraj Malik, calling it a necessary correction that restores faith in institutional integrity.
In a statement issued to KNS, Inam Un Nabi questioned the very basis of invoking PSA against an elected legislator. “What did those who slapped PSA on a legislator actually achieve, other than demeaning the institution itself?” he asked.
He said the decision to quash the PSA underlines the importance of restraint and accountability while using stringent laws. “When such measures are misapplied, it not only affects individuals but also erodes public trust in democratic institutions,” he added.
Drawing a parallel, Inam Un Nabi expressed concern over the continued incarceration of Member of Parliament Er Rashid, who has been in jail for the past seven years. He said the contrast calls for introspection and a more humane approach, especially when Er Rashid’s father is critically ill.
With his bail plea listed tomorrow before the Delhi High Court, Inam Un Nabi said the party remains hopeful.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel“We believe justice will prevail and that Er Rashid will be granted relief, allowing him to be with his family in this crucial time,” he said.
He also noted that several religious and political leaders cutting across party lines, including Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, Dr Farooq Abdullah, Syed Altaf Bukhari, Bilal Gani Lone besides Parliamentarians and legislators, civil society members have visited the hospital and expressed concern, with many openly demanding Er Rashid’s release on humanitarian grounds.
Inam Un Nabi said such gestures reflect a shared human concern that goes beyond politics. “Democracy is strengthened when there is respect for the mandate of the people and dignity of their elected representatives. The people of Baramulla chose their representative with trust and hope and that choice must be respected in both letter and spirit,” he said.
He added that upholding democratic values means ensuring that representation is meaningful and humane. “Institutions earn credibility when they protect not just the law but also the spirit of justice. We remain hopeful that the coming hearing will reaffirm both,” he said.(KNS)