J&K: AAP MLA Malik booked for removing equipment from govt wellness centre

A case has been registered against Mehraj Malik, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) J&K president and MLA from Doda, for allegedly removing equipment and life-saving drugs from an Ayushman Arogya Mandir/Health & Wellness Centre at Kencha village in Doda district.The FIR was filed by the district health authorities after Malik was seen in a live-streamed video, allegedly shifting medical equipment from the government-run centre. The incident sparked controversy and led to heated arguments between local leaders, some of whom objected to Malik's actions.

According to an official statement issued by the district health authorities, the wellness centre at Kencha village in Thathri Block has been operating out of a rented, two-room private building for over five years. One of the rooms had sunk and sustained partial structural damage nearly two years ago.

"Given repeated safety concerns raised by residents, the Block Medical Officer (BMO), Thathri, took up the matter with the Chief Medical Officer (CMO), Doda, to relocate the centre to a safer facility," the statement said.

Several committees were reportedly formed to assess alternative buildings. After due process, a building owned by one Abdul Rashid was recommended and approved for relocation. However, MLA Mehraj Malik opposed the decision, accusing the administration of corruption and favouritism. He allegedly supported another candidate, Ghulam Ali Malik, whose proposal was rejected for not meeting the required criteria.

The statement further alleged that Mehraj Malik, along with some individuals, illegally removed medical equipment and life-saving drugs, which led to disruption of emergency services and the distribution of medicines to the public.

Consequently, an FIR was registered at Gandoh Police Station under Sections 221, 329(3), 351(2), 305(e), and 191(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) against those involved, including the MLA.

Responding to the allegations, Mehraj Malik posted a statement on social media claiming that he had submitted a written request to the Doda CMO for relocating the wellness centre based on public demand and in favour of the most suitable location. He alleged that the Deputy Commissioner (DC) was trying to "favour the mafia" and used unparliamentary language against the DC during his statement.