Excelsior Correspondent
Srinagar, Feb 17: A local court in Shopian district issued an arrest warrant against journalist and author Gowhar Nazir Geelani after he failed to appear before the court twice.
The Executive Magistrate 1st Class Shopian has directed the Station House Officer, Police Station Heerpora in Shopian district to arrest Geelani and produce him before the court on Feb 19.
“In view of the non-appearance of Gowhar Nazir Geelani after serving notice upon him under section 107 and 151 CrPC on February 3, you (SHO Heerpora Shopian) are directed to arrest and produce the above said person (Geelani) before this court on 19/02/2022 in order to maintain peace and public tranquility in the jurisdiction of this court,” reads the order by the Executive Magistrate 1st Class Shopian.
Gowhar had been evading appearance and as such his order of arrest to produce him were passed by the court.
The court on Feb 3 summoned Geelani to ensure personal appearance before it on 7th February for acting in a manner “prejudicial” to the public interest that tends to “disturb” public peace. However, he sought time to appear before the court and was granted two days and was asked to appear on Feb 9. However, he failed to appear forcing Executive Magistrate to issue arrest warrant.
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