J&K AAP MLA moves High Court over withdrawn security cover

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) legislator Mehraj Malik has petitioned the Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh High Court seeking the restoration of his security cover and escort vehicle, which were withdrawn following his detention under the Public Safety Act (PSA).

Malik was jailed for nearly eight months under the PSA before the court quashed the detention order and released him in April this year. Despite his release, his security arrangements have not been reinstated.

In his petition filed on September 7, Malik highlighted the security risks he faces as a legislator, noting his travel to terror-prone areas for public meetings, grassroots outreach, and constituency work. He argued that while other MLAs have been provided escort vehicles and adequate security, he has been deprived of the same despite repeated representations, including one sent on August 3 that went unanswered.

Malik said he is seeking security as an elected public representative, based on a fair and objective assessment of threat perception.

The court has directed the Security Review Coordination Committee (SRCC) to examine his threat perception and take a decision within six weeks. Malik welcomed the order, expressing hope that authorities will conduct an impartial and professional assessment of his security needs without political considerations.

"Security must be based on threat perception, not political perception," he said.