Jammu, April 28, 2026 : Following his release from Kathua jail, AAP MLA Mehraj Malik on Tuesday voiced concern over what he described as a shrinking political space, urging young people to actively participate in politics to bring meaningful change.
Malik, whose detention under the Public Safety Act (PSA) was recently quashed by the Jammu and Kashmir High Court, said that legal cases are increasingly becoming intertwined with political activity, making it difficult for voices of reform to emerge.
“Our struggle will continue. It is not driven by politics alone, but by thoughts and the welfare of the people,” Malik said, reaffirming his commitment to public service.
Calling on the youth, he emphasized that real transformation is only possible through political engagement. “I am alone right now. I want youth to join politics. Only politics can change the fate of the people,” he stated.
He also stressed the need to rise above religious divisions, advocating for governance based on performance and character rather than identity. “A person’s identity is defined by their character, not their faith,” he added.
Reflecting on his imprisonment, Malik said his struggle was for the rights of the people and would continue unabated. He alleged that legal cases were used to hinder reform efforts but maintained that such challenges are part of the system.
Highlighting key concerns, the MLA pointed to unemployment as a major issue affecting youth, despite ongoing campaigns on other social problems.
He also called upon educated and capable individuals to step into public life, stating that meaningful change requires broader participation and courage to speak out.
Reaffirming his resolve, Malik said, “You can imprison a person, but not his thoughts. This is a fight for humanity, justice, and a better society.”
