The Jammu & Kashmir High Court Bar Association (JKHCBA) was on Monday barred from holding any elections until it clarified its position on terming Kashmir a disputed territory and was also asked to submit its relevant documents to the Srinagar deputy commissioner, including the article of association and registration papers. Imposing prohibitory orders in the district court complex in Srinagar, its DM Shahid Iqbal Choudhury issued three notices to the president of the bar association asking the association to explain its Constitution which terms Kashmir a disputed area.
The DM asked the office bearers that they are “required to explain their position on the subject since it is not in consonance with the Constitution of India whereby Jammu & Kashmir is an integral part of the country and not a dispute, and also in conflict with The Advocates Act of 1961...” the notice issued by the deputy commissioner said. The bar has also been asked to submit a certificate issued by the competent authority. The certificate “is required to be produced indicating the date of issuance of such registration, article and association, registered office, executive body, and validity of registration among other details,” the notice said.
The notice said the DM had also received representation from advocates of J&K HC wherein serious allegations have been levelled and concerns raised regarding the poll process and its motive. .
The DM also imposed section 144 of CrPC in premises of district court complex in Srinagar.