Statement By Farooq Inqlabi, Senior PDP Leader In Response to the Press Release by Sr. Advocate Nirmal K. Kotwal

GNS ONLINE NEWS PORTAL

RAJOURI SEPTEMBER 18 2025

I have taken note of the press release issued by Senior Advocate Mr. Nirmal K. Kotwal concerning the case of Mr. Mehraj Malik, Hon’ble MLA, and his decision to withdraw from representing him in the matter relating to the Public Safety Act (PSA).

While I fully respect the right of every legal professional to act in accordance with conscience and ethics, it is deeply concerning that this decision was made public on the basis of unverified and selectively circulated video clips, without any judicial determination of their authenticity.

I hold Mr. Kotwal in the highest personal and professional regard as a respected Senior Advocate of the Hon’ble High Court of Jammu & Kashmir. However, it is unfortunate that the language used in his statement closely echoes the political narrative of the BJP, rather than reflecting the neutrality and restraint expected from a senior officer of the court.

It must be underlined that these short, edited video clips—allegedly manufactured and circulated by the BJP IT Cell—are being deployed to exert pressure on the administration and to justify politically motivated cases against Mr. Mehraj Malik. Such tactics mark a dangerous shift from due process to trial by media, undermining both democracy and justice.

For clarity, Mr. Mehraj Malik has always stood for the unity and integrity of the nation. As an elected representative, he has consistently encouraged the youth of Jammu & Kashmir to strengthen their faith in the Constitution, engage in the democratic process, and reject extremism. His record reflects commitment to peace, dialogue, and democratic values.

Mr. Kotwal is correct in highlighting the importance of national interest and sovereignty. Yet national interest is best protected when the rule of law is upheld, when justice is done without prejudice, and when constitutional rights are safeguarded for every citizen—irrespective of political affiliation.

If guilt is to be assumed merely on the basis of what trends online, then not only is the legal process weakened, but the very promise of justice enshrined in our Constitution is endangered. When senior members of the legal fraternity mirror partisan talking points without verified evidence, it sends a troubling signal about the growing influence of polarization over principles.

At this critical juncture, I appeal to all responsible voices in our legal, political, and civil spheres to rise above populist pressures. Let facts, not propaganda, determine outcomes. Let the courts decide, let truth prevail, and let justice stand firm.

Farooq Inqlabi
Senior Leader, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)
18.09.2025