Principal Sessions Judge Budgam, Om Prakash Baghat has issued a formal proclamation against Hizbul Mujahideen chief Syed Salahuddin, directing him to appear before the court within one month in connection with a two-decade-old murder case.
The order was passed in connection with FIR No. 255/2002 registered at Police Station Budgam under sections 302, 307, 109 RPC and 7/25 Arms Act. The accused, identified as Mohammad Yousuf Shah alias Salahuddin, son of Ghulam Rasool Shah, resident of Banpora, Soibugh, Budgam has been evading arrest since the incident, with reports suggesting he is currently residing in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).
The proclamation order under Section 512 CrPC follows repeated failed attempts by the police to execute arrest warrants. The Investigating Officer and the SHO concerned submitted statements confirming that despite exhaustive efforts, Salahuddin could not be located in the Valley, thereby stalling the judicial process, reads the proclamation notice.
The court observed that due to the accused’s continued absence, justice has been delayed for the victim’s family. Satisfied with the police submissions and supporting documents, the court directed that the proclamation be published in the Government Gazette and daily newspapers, and be publicly read in Salahuddin’s native village to ensure wider notice.
The accused has been given a one-month deadline from the date of publication to present himself before the court, failing which further legal action under due process will follow. (KDC)
