Shafqat Sheikh

https://newsagencyknt.com/mehraj-malik-scaling-heights-in-jks-chenab-valley/

Mehraj Malik - Scaling Heights in J&K's Chenab Valley - Kashmir News Trust Mehraj Malik, the lone Aam Aadmi Party legislator in Jammu and Kashmir, has emerged as a central political figure following his release after detention under

Mehraj Malik: The Hope of a Common Citizen in Jammu and Kashmir

Shafqat Sheikh



Since its independence, Jammu and Kashmir has produced numerous influential personalities, leaders, and politicians who have worked towards development and addressed the basic needs of society. The Chenab region, which encompasses three districts, has a rich history of notable leaders, politicians, and scholars.

One of the most prominent figures in this lineage is Ghulam Nabi Azad, a towering politician who has held various key positions both in Jammu and Kashmir and at the central government level.

In 2013, a new name emerged in Jammu and Kashmir politics through the Delhi-based Aam Aadmi Party, led by Arvind Kejriwal. At that time, Mehraj Malik entered the political arena without any prior political background. Starting in 2013, Mehraj began his journey by distributing caps and mufflers representing the Aam Aadmi Party in his home region of Tendla, a hamlet in the Bhalessa area. Driven by dedication, Mehraj has tirelessly worked to amplify the voice of common citizens, who have been overlooked and have lost hope.

Mehraj contested his first election in 2014, securing nearly 300 votes in the Assembly Election. This election marked a turning point in his political career. Despite receiving only 300 votes, Mehraj continued to advocate for the ignored issues of the people, facing attempts to silence him.

Undeterred, Mehraj has faced numerous challenges, including various FIRs registered against him by the administration and intimidation tactics from local authorities to stifle his voice. Nevertheless, he leads with an open mind and encourages society to fight for its rights and justice as guaranteed by the Constitution of India.

He contested the District Development Council (DDC) election from the Kahara Jhakyas Constituency and won by a significant margin against rivals from various political parties. This victory generated momentum among the DDCs across Jammu and Kashmir, as Mehraj effectively utilised social media to showcase his work and engage with the public. His efforts were widely appreciated, raising awareness about various schemes and funds aimed at improving society.

As a DDC Member, Mehraj raised significant issues affecting ordinary citizens, enhancing his popularity and earning the reputation of being a representative brand in the community.

In 2024, Mehraj Malik contested the Assembly Election from the 52 Doda Assembly Constituency, winning with a substantial margin against candidates from the BJP and other parties. He became the first and only MLA of the Aam Aadmi Party in Jammu and Kashmir. Following his victory, he received congratulations from various quarters, including a video call from the AAP Supremo, who celebrated the achievement.

Interestingly, opposition parties attempted to undermine him through dirty political tactics in coordination with the local administration to silence his voice. However, Mehraj fearlessly addressed issues of corruption, administrative loopholes and demanded improvements for society.

As he continues to advocate for the common citizen in the Doda Assembly Constituency, Mehraj raises fundamental issues such as quality education, improved healthcare services, and better road infrastructure—areas the administrative setup continues to neglect. As a young and fearless legislator, he remains committed to holding the administration accountable and ensuring justice for the common people.

On September 8, 2025, under political pressure, the Administration filed a Public Safety Act (PSA) case against Mehraj Malik, with a detailed police dossier detailing public disorder, including the registration of 18 FIRs and 16 DDRs. The concerned police were directed to make an immediate arrest and detain him in the District Jail, Kathua. This decision was made hastily, as the Administration appeared to be acting as judge in its own case against the sitting legislator.

Following the arrest of MLA Doda, Mehraj Malik, mass protests erupted in support of him. Demonstrators demanded his immediate release after the imposition of Section 166 of the BNSS and the suspension of internet services across the Doda district. The protests were fueled by public support for Malik, who is known for his open-mindedness and ability to connect with the community.

Advocate Appu Singh Salathia, a member of Mehraj Malik's legal counsel team, took to the media from day one, conveying a sense of hope and responsibility. He reassured everyone that this difficult time would eventually pass, echoing Malik's sentiment with the phrase "LAMHA," meaning "this time will pass."

Given the circumstances, the only recourse left was the Honourable High Court, which needed to follow the due process of law. A habeas corpus petition was filed, challenging Malik's PSA detention. The legal team, led by Senior Advocate Rahul Pant and including Advocates Muzaffar Iqbal Khan, Sheikh Shakeel Ahmed, Appu Singh Salathia, Mohd Zulkarnain Choudhary, and Tariq Moghal, worked tirelessly on the case. Their efforts were rewarded when the Honourable High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh issued an 87-page judgment, quashing Malik's PSA detention with immediate effect.

Upon the announcement of the judgment, there was widespread joy among Mehraj Malik's supporters, colleagues, friends, and fans. Many celebrated by distributing sweets and setting off fireworks. A few hours later, Malik was released from District Jail Kathua, where thousands welcomed him with great respect and honour.

In a media address, Mehraj Malik expressed disappointment in the government, stating, "What do you expect from this government? They did nothing for me, despite my position in the Assembly. If they did nothing for me, what can they do?" He also responded to questions about Omar Abdullah, criticising him by saying, "If tweets could solve issues, what is the purpose of him? He is the Chief Minister and should be making bold decisions. When I become Chief Minister, I will show them how things should be done." He concluded by emphasising that he holds no personal animosity, but he is opposed to anyone who fails to deliver justice to common citizens.

(The author is a freelance writer and columnist from Bunjwah Kishtwar. He can be reached at [email protected] or 9419281321 / 9419974577.

Experiencing Incredible Journey, Beyond the Headlines,


Rashada Aghalarova

As a solo traveller from Azerbaijan, I hold a one-year tourist visa and have had the incredible opportunity to explore various regions of India. My journeys have been largely enjoyable, but one experience stands out as particularly unique: visiting the residence of Shafqat Sheikh, nestled in the picturesque hilly terrain of Bunjwah in the Kishtwar district of Jammu and Kashmir.

I started my journey to Bunjwah from Jammu Bus Stand, catching one of the early morning buses — definitely the best way to go. The ride to Thathri cost 300 rupees, and honestly, the road itself was the highlight — absolutely fascinating and mind-blowing views all the way.

Once I reached, my host Shafqat had already arranged everything. He spoke to the Bus Conductor, and they dropped me at the right spot. From there, his driver picked me up and took me to his home.

Their hospitality was truly heartwarming. A beautiful, authentic house with a traditional fire kitchen, delicious homemade food prepared by his mother, and such a warm family atmosphere. I loved spending time with them, especially playing with their adorable daughter.

Shafqat speaks great English and was so passionate about sharing his culture — I learned so much about Kashmiri life through our conversations.

Experiences like this make the journey unforgettable.

I stayed at their home for four days. Shafqat is truly someone who understands hospitality and, at the same time, deeply cares about his community.

Together, we visited a place called Devigol — a beautiful spot where Islam and Hinduism meet in harmony. Around the village, there are several viewpoints where the entire village lies beneath your feet, absolutely breathtaking. He personally took me to these places and showed me everything.

By the way, Shafqat was always the one driving. Despite the dangerous mountain roads, he drove very carefully and responsibly, which made me feel safe the entire time.

After visiting the viewpoints, I told him I wanted to see the village mosque. He introduced me to two mosques in the village. Since there were no separate spaces for women, I needed special permission — and I’m very grateful that he arranged this for me so I could experience it.

Everywhere I went in the village, people were incredibly kind and welcoming. So many of them even invited me into their homes. I’m truly thankful to every one of them.

One of my favourite moments was when Shafqat took me to the village school. I had the chance to deliver a speech to the students, encouraging them to value their education and keep learning. Meeting the youth of the village was something very special for me.

I’m grateful because he showed me almost everything I had hoped to experience.

I will truly miss our early mornings, drinking traditional namkeen tea together. I want to express my deep thanks to him and his family for everything they did for me. He gave me a very cosy, traditionally decorated private room, which made my stay even more special.

Honestly, if it wasn’t for him, this journey wouldn’t have been this smooth and comfortable.

My journey back from Bunjwah village didn’t go as planned, but maybe that’s what made it so special!

A landslide blocked the only mountain road. Nature reminded us who's really in charge here. But the kindness of people was even stronger. Villagers carried my suitcase across the landslide so I could continue.

One kilometre on foot, then a bus, then more helping hands, even the students I met at a local school helped me carry my luggage. I reached the Nashri tunnel, and from there the police helped me find the next bus. They even carried my suitcase too.

Eventually, I made it to Banihal and took that incredible railway train to Srinagar. For 2 hours, I just stared out the window, thinking: this journey was hard, but unbelievably beautiful.

Meanwhile, my host Shafqat kept texting me the whole way: “Where are you? Are you safe?” — That kind of care is rare.

“Kashmir, You are not just a place. You are the people”

(Rashada Aghalarova is a foreign solo traveller from Azerbaijan, and can be contacted on rashadatravelling)

Bunjwah in the wake of snowfall