Srinagar, Sept 18: Senior Advocate Nirmal K. Kotwal has issued a public clarification distancing himself from MLA Mehraj Malik following the circulation of certain videos on social media in which Malik has allegedly made anti-national statements. The videos reportedly show the legislator claiming that Jammu and Kashmir is not part of India and praising militant Burhan Wani and designated terrorist Masood Azhar.
In his statement, Advocate Kotwal expressed shock at the content of these videos, clarifying that neither he nor his legal team had been made aware of these utterances at the time he was briefed by the Aam Aadmi Party regarding Malik’s legal defense in connection with the Public Safety Act (PSA) imposed against him.
“Had these statements been brought to my notice earlier, I would have taken a different decision at the very outset. These utterances, if true, are not only insensitive and irresponsible but also strike at the very heart of India’s national security, sovereignty, and integrity,” Kotwal said.
The senior lawyer emphasized his duty both as an officer of the court and as a responsible citizen, making it clear that the interests of the nation override all other considerations. He stated that he cannot, in good conscience, continue to represent Malik in proceedings linked to the PSA matter.
“In light of my conscience, professional ethics, and my unwavering commitment to national unity, I hereby recuse myself from appearing in this case,” Kotwal said, underlining that India’s sovereignty and unity are non-negotiable and must never be compromised.