Jammu
Mian Abdul Qayoom, former president of the Jammu and Kashmir High Court Bar Association, was remanded to police custody until July 1 by a special court on Wednesday in connection with advocate Babar Qadri’s 2020 murder conspiracy.
Qayoom, associated with the All Party Hurriyat Conference and banned Jamaat-e-Islami, was transferred from Srinagar to Jammu under heavy security. He appeared in court wearing a white Pathani attire and mask, escorted by armed guards.
Qadri, a human rights advocate, was fatally shot at his Srinagar home in September 2020, following a previous assassination attempt in 2018. His murder underscored violence used to silence dissent within the bar association, particularly his criticism of Qayoom.
His tenure at the bar association was marked by allegations of intimidation and control, treating it as his personal domain. The case was moved to Jammu from Srinagar in January for a fair trial due to concerns over local lawyers’ reluctance to participate.
Qayoom, father-in-law of Jammu and Kashmir High Court judge Justice Javed Iqbal Wani, faces scrutiny for multiple cases including land encroachment and disrespecting the national flag.
Known for advocating Kashmir’s integration with Pakistan through protests and inciting violence, Qayoom’s affiliations with banned groups like Yasin Malik’s led to charges under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. His confrontational stance against Indian authorities has drawn criticism and attention, impacting regional stability and livelihoods. His actions have polarized communities and garnered international attention for unrest in Jammu and Kashmir.
