Srinagar, June 25: The elections for the Jammu and Kashmir High Court Bar Association (JKHCBA) have been suspended by the District Magistrate of Srinagar, citing security concerns and potential unrest. The decision follows allegations from the Kashmir Advocates Association questioning the JKHCBA’s registration status and accusing it of promoting secessionist ideology.
The District Magistrate’s order states that the JKHCBA is not registered with the Registrar of Societies Kashmir, and the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) reported concerns about the association’s activities, including advocating for a “peaceful settlement of the Kashmir issue” and providing legal aid to anti-national elements. The SSP warned that allowing the elections could lead to breaches of peace between different law groups.
In light of these reports, the District Magistrate has invoked Section 144 of the CrPC, prohibiting gatherings of four or more people at the District Court Complex in Moominabad, Batmaloo, or any location to conduct the elections until further notice. The order is effective immediately and mandates strict enforcement by the Senior Superintendent of Police, with any violations subject to punitive action under Section 188 of the Indian Penal Code.
