SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Democratic Front (PDF) President and former Minister, Hakeem Mohammad Yaseen, has strongly condemned the imposition of the Public Safety Act (PSA) on Doda MLA Mehraj Malik, calling it an excessive measure that curtails democratic rights.
In a statement issued on Friday, Yaseen said the PSA, intended for criminals and anti-social elements, should never be used against an elected public representative. “A simple FIR or challan could have addressed the issue if there was any lapse. Slapping PSA is not a solution—it only fuels controversy and stifles free expression,” he stated.
Yaseen expressed concern over the distress caused to Malik and his family, while also urging public figures to exercise caution in their conduct, emphasising that “nobody is above the law.”
He also criticised the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly Secretariat for issuing a show-cause notice to Pulwama MLA Waheed-ur-Rehman Para over comments related to Malik’s detention. Yaseen argued that suppressing political speech with notices was counterproductive and called for the repeal of the PSA, labelling it a “black law” long promised for removal by successive governments.
In contrast to his criticism, Yaseen welcomed the launch of parcel train services from Budgam to New Delhi, designed to transport Kashmiri apples and other produce to markets across India. He described the initiative as a “historic step” for the region’s horticulture sector and extended thanks to the Government of India, Union Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, and Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha.
“This move ensures safer, faster transportation of perishable goods and strengthens the economic backbone of Jammu and Kashmir,” he said, urging authorities to expand the service to benefit more districts and farmers.
