July 18, 2018:
Jammu and Kashmir Govt has appointed Aseem Sawhney, one of the Defence Lawyers in Kathua Gangrape and Murder case, as an Additional Advocate General of State, drawing criticism from Former Chief Ministers Mehbooba Mufti and Omar Abdullah.
State Government has appointed 31 advocates as Additional Advocates Generals, Deputy Advocates General and Government Advocates, with 15 in the Kashmir wing of the High Court and 16 in Jammu wing.
PDP Chief and Former CM Mehbooba Mufti called it a 'shocking violation' of the spirit of justice and alleged that it will encourage "rape culture". She hoped that Governor will intervene in the issue.
NC leader Omar Abdullah said the decision was both inexplicable and worrisome.
Mehbooba Mufti tweeted that,"Ironic that a day after celebrating World Day for International Justice, the Defence Counsel in the horrific gangrape and murder Kathua case has been appointed as Additional Advocate General".
She added that,"Rewarding those who defend alleged murderers & rapists is abhorrent & a shocking violation of the spirit of justice. Such a move will only serve to encourage the rape culture rampant in our society. Expect the @jandkgovernor to intervene".
Trial in the case began on May 31 with the seven accused being produced before District and Sessions Judge after Supreme Court transferred the case from Jammu and Kashmir to Pathankot in Punjab for a fair trial following a plea by the victim's family.
Source New Indian Express
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