AAP MLA Mehraj Malik’s Security Cover: HC Orders Threat Assessment Within Six Weeks

Jammu, September 8: The Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh High Court has directed authorities to assess the threat perception of AAP Jammu and Kashmir president and MLA Mehraj Malik and decide on his request for restoration of security cover, including an escort vehicle, within six weeks.

Justice Sanjay Dhar passed the directions while disposing of a petition filed by Malik through advocate Appu Singh Slathia. The court directed authorities to consider Malik’s representations in accordance with law and place his case before the Security Review Coordination Committee (SRCC) for a fresh assessment.

The court further ordered that, based on the assessment, an appropriate level of security be provided to Malik and the exercise be completed expeditiously within six weeks from the date a copy of the order is served on the respondents.

Malik had approached the court seeking restoration of his security cover and escort vehicle, which he claimed were not restored after his release from jail following the quashing of his detention under the Public Safety Act (PSA) on April 27.

The AAP leader was detained in September 2025 from his home constituency in Doda under the PSA on allegations of disturbing public order and was lodged in Kathua jail. The High Court subsequently quashed his detention, holding the order legally unsustainable and based on “non-application of mind”.

According to the petition, Malik’s security cover was reduced from April 28 and his escort vehicle withdrawn without proper consideration. He also claimed to have submitted several representations to the authorities seeking restoration of the security arrangements, but received no relief.

Malik submitted that as an MLA, he is required to travel across different parts of the Union Territory for political and public engagements, necessitating appropriate security arrangements. (Agencies)