Voice of the People Cannot Be Imprisoned’: Said ASP Leader Yaqoob Dunoo on MLA Mehraj Malik’s Detention

GNS ONLINE NEWS PORTAL

SRINAGAR SEPTEMBER 09:-The Ambedkar Samaj Party (ASP) General Secretary, Mohammad Yaqoob Dunoo, has strongly condemned the detention of MLA Doda, Mehraj Malik, under the Public Safety Act (PSA), terming it an attack on democracy and an attempt to silence the voice of the people.

In a statement issued here, Dunoo said the arrest of Malik is not merely a legal move but a direct strike at the hopes of people who trusted him to be their voice. “By silencing one, countless others are left unheard. What Jammu & Kashmir needs is dialogue and respect, not fear and repression,” he remarked.

He further pointed out that the arrest has sparked protests across Malik’s constituency. Ironically, Dunoo added, the District Magistrate’s own order has disturbed peace and stability in the area. “Now, the question arises, who will hold the DM accountable for disturbing peace and posing a threat to society?” he asked.

Expressing strong resentment, Dunoo said, “I strongly condemn the booking of MLA Doda, Mr. Mehraj Malik, under the PSA. His only fault was standing with the people — the voiceless, the helpless, the unheard. He spoke truth to power, raised genuine grievances, and worked tirelessly to bring relief to those in need.”

At the same time, Dunoo also expressed disapproval of the language used by Malik against the Deputy Commissioner (DC) Doda. He stated that while dissent and criticism are part of democracy, the language employed must always remain respectful and dignified. “We may disagree with authorities and question their decisions, but resorting to harsh or derogatory language only weakens the strength of one’s argument and sets a wrong precedent. Leaders must set an example in conduct, ensuring that criticism remains constructive and within democratic bounds,” Dunoo emphasized.

He stressed that punishing a public representative for serving the public is an attack on democracy itself. “Silencing one voice will not silence the pain of thousands who suffer in silence every day,” Dunoo said.

The Ambedkar Samaj Party has demanded the immediate release of Mehraj Malik and urged the authorities to uphold the values of justice, dignity, and democracy. “The voice of the people cannot be imprisoned,” Dunoo concluded.