Political Space Shrinking, Youth Must Join for Change: Mehraj Malik

JAMMU, Apr 28: AAP MLA Mehraj Malik on Tuesday said political space is shrinking and urged youth to join public life, asserting that meaningful change is only possible through political engagement.

Speaking after his release from Kathua jail following the quashing of his detention under the Public Safety Act (PSA) by the Jammu and Kashmir High Court, Malik said he would continue his struggle for public welfare.

“Our struggle will continue. It is not based on politics but on thoughts and the drive for people’s welfare,” he told reporters.

He alleged that legal cases are increasingly being used to target political voices, saying he was jailed for raising issues concerning the public. “We did not enter politics to fight legal cases, but to bring improvement. However, being entangled in such cases has become part of the system,” he said.

Calling for greater youth participation, Malik said, “I am alone right now. I want youth to join politics. Only politics can change the fate of the people and this country.”

He emphasised the need to rise above religious divisions, stating that governance should be judged by performance rather than identity. “Working for humanity is both my passion and my duty. A person’s identity is defined by their character, not their faith,” he said.

The legislator maintained that his fight is rooted in reform and justice, adding that his imprisonment would not deter his resolve. “You can imprison a person, but not his thoughts. This is a fight for humanity and justice,” he said.

Malik also apologised to his supporters for the hardships faced during his eight-month incarceration, describing struggle as an inevitable part of change.

He said unemployment remains a major issue affecting youth despite campaigns such as drug-free initiatives, and criticised the lack of vision in policymaking. “If those making policies themselves lack vision, how will society progress?” he asked.

Reaffirming his commitment, Malik said he would soon resume public outreach after consulting his team and urged people to remain patient.

He also clarified that he holds no personal grudges against officials and called for empathetic governance focused on public interest.

Claiming that little progress was made in governance and public institutions during his jail term, Malik said democracy ultimately allows people to judge right and wrong.

“It has become difficult to speak openly, but without political engagement, no real change is possible,” he said, adding that politics drives global developments and remains key to transformation. (Agencies)