Mehraj Malik, born in 1988, is an Indian politician and social worker from Jammu and Kashmir. He has emerged as a notable figure in the state’s political arena, particularly as the first-ever Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in J&K. Representing the Doda constituency, Malik’s rise from grassroots activism to state-level politics reflects the AAP’s anti-corruption ethos and its focus on governance reforms.
His victory in the 2024 assembly elections marked a milestone for AAP, breaking into the region traditionally dominated by the National Conference (NC), People’s Democratic Party (PDP), and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). However, Malik’s career has been marred by turbulence, most notably his detention under the Public Safety Act (PSA) in September 2025. The move has triggered widespread protests and opened debates on democratic freedoms and governance in Jammu and Kashmir.
As of September 11, 2025, Malik remains at the centre of political and social unrest in Doda, where protests, detentions, and even a mysterious blast have underscored the fragile intersection of politics and security in the region.
Early Life and Background
Born in 1988 in the remote village of Taindla in Thathri tehsil of Doda district, Mehraj Malik grew up in the Chenab Valley—a region known for its rugged terrain, communal sensitivity, and limited infrastructure. His upbringing was marked by rural poverty, weak public services, and the after-effects of prolonged conflict.
His father, Shamas-ud-din Malik, recently came into the spotlight when he appealed to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for his son’s release, highlighting the family’s struggle during his detention.
Although details of Malik’s formal education remain sparse, he studied locally before dedicating himself to social work. Unlike dynastic politicians common in J&K, Malik often presents himself as a leader from a humble, non-political background motivated by the inequities he witnessed in access to healthcare, education, and road connectivity.
Malik is married and a father, but he largely keeps his family life private.
Entry into Politics and Early Career
Malik’s political journey began in 2013, when he joined the Aam Aadmi Party, inspired by its anti-corruption drive under Arvind Kejriwal. He contested the 2014 J&K Assembly elections from Doda as an independent candidate but lost. Instead of withdrawing, he doubled down on community work, winning local goodwill through grassroots activism.
His breakthrough came in the 2020 District Development Council (DDC) elections, where he secured a seat and served actively from 2021 to 2024. During this period, he pushed for better infrastructure, healthcare facilities, and employment opportunities, building his image as a people’s leader.
By 2024, Malik had risen to State President of AAP in Jammu and Kashmir, spearheading the party’s outreach in the region.
2024 Assembly Election Victory
The 2024 Assembly elections proved historic for both Malik and AAP. Contesting from Doda, he won decisively, becoming the party’s first MLA in Jammu and Kashmir. His campaign focused on anti-corruption, accountability, and development, striking a chord with voters disillusioned by decades of traditional politics.
AAP leaders across India celebrated his victory, with Arvind Kejriwal calling it a symbol of the party’s growing national reach. As MLA, Malik quickly made his mark by raising issues like contractor dues, delays in infrastructure, and healthcare shortfalls.
Achievements and Contributions
Malik’s tenure as a social worker and later as a politician has been marked by a focus on grassroots issues:
- Advocated for well-equipped hospitals and better healthcare access in rural areas.
- Worked for road development and infrastructure upgrades in Doda and adjoining regions.
- Promoted interfaith harmony in the Chenab Valley, a communally sensitive zone.
- Maintained active engagement with people through social media. His X (formerly Twitter) handle, @MehrajMalikAAP, has over 18,000 followers. His Instagram bio states: “I am here to change politics and the political system. LIVE FOR OTHERS.”
In the assembly, he often challenged bureaucrats and highlighted delays in public projects, positioning himself as a strong accountability-driven leader.
Controversies and Recent Detention
Malik’s blunt style has repeatedly landed him in controversy. In early September 2025, he was detained under the PSA, becoming the first sitting MLA in J&K to face such action. Authorities alleged he disturbed public order after clashing with the Doda Deputy Commissioner over unpaid contractor dues.
The move triggered massive protests across Doda, Bhaderwah, Gandoh, and Thathri. Over 80 people were detained, internet services were suspended for three days, and Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) was invoked to maintain law and order.
On September 11, 2025, a mysterious blast near Jamia Masjid in Doda deepened tensions, with police detaining two suspects.
Political leaders reacted sharply:
- AAP’s Sanjay Singh attempted protests in Srinagar but was placed under house arrest.
- Omar Abdullah assured Malik’s father of legal support.
- Farooq Abdullah criticized the PSA move but advised Malik to issue an apology.
- Shiv Sena (UBT) also called it a misuse of PSA.
Civil rights activists argue the detention represents bureaucratic overreach and an attack on democratic rights in J&K.
Personal Life and Legacy
Malik is regarded as a symbol of aspiration for Kashmiri youth, representing an outsider who broke into the deeply entrenched system of J&K politics. Despite his rising profile, he maintains a modest lifestyle, reflected in his election affidavits.
His personal journey—from a remote village in Doda to the state assembly—has made him a relatable figure, particularly among rural youth seeking change.
Though his political future is uncertain amid ongoing detention, Malik’s story is already shaping debates on governance, democracy, and civil liberties in Jammu and Kashmir. His case may also determine AAP’s long-term foothold in the region.
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