Srinagar, June 25:(CNI) The arrest of former J&K High Court Bar Association (JKHCBA) president Mian Qayoom has sent shockwaves through the legal community in Kashmir, as he stands accused in the murder case of prominent lawyer Babar Qadri. Qadri, known for his outspoken views, was fatally shot at his residence in Srinagar by assailants posing as clients back in September 2020.

The developments come after a special investigation team, formed by state authorities, pursued leads for nearly a year, eventually implicating several individuals in the heinous crime. In August 2021, charges were formally laid against five suspects, marking a significant breakthrough in the case. The subsequent elimination of Abbas Shiekh, the chief commander of The Resistance Front (TRF), and his deputy Saqib Manzoor by security forces in September 2021 further shed light on the network involved in Qadri’s tragic demise.

According to sources close to the investigation, Saqib Manzoor, besides his role in TRF, was linked to the conspiracy behind Qadri’s assassination. The unfolding details have underscored the complexities and dangers faced by legal professionals in Kashmir, where the pursuit of justice can sometimes lead to perilous consequences.

Mian Qayoom’s arrest has not only raised eyebrows but also stirred concerns about the integrity of legal institutions amidst the backdrop of ongoing unrest in the region. As the case progresses, questions linger about the broader implications for legal advocacy and the safety of those engaged in defending human rights and civil liberties in the volatile region.

The arrest of such a prominent figure within the legal fraternity has undoubtedly added a layer of intrigue to an already complex case, highlighting the challenges of balancing justice with security in a region plagued by decades of political turmoil and armed conflict.(CNI)