Court Directs Police to Ensure Safety of Petitioner Now a Major
In a significant judgment from the Jammu and Kashmir High Court, the court has directed local police authorities to ensure the safety and security of a young woman who had initially petitioned the court as a minor, seeking protection from alleged threats of forced marriage and harm. The case, titled "Sobiya Kouser v. UT of J&K," was presided over by Justice Rahul Bharti.
The petitioner, Sobiya Kouser, approached the court while still a minor, through her elder sister, expressing fears of being forcibly married to one Ghulam Murtaza, and claiming threats from his family. The writ petition was filed on February 9, 2023. By the time the court reached its decision on December 20, 2025, Sobiya had attained majority.
The court has directed the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) of Poonch and the Station House Officer (SHO) of the Mendhar Police Station to ensure that the petitioner is protected from any harm or threats. The judgment further empowers Sobiya to approach the SSP in case she faces any further harassment or threats from respondents numbered 4 to 10, implying the individuals alleged to be behind the threats.
The court's order underscores the judiciary's commitment to protecting individuals from coercive practices and ensuring their personal safety, especially in cases involving vulnerable individuals like former minors.
The court disposed of the petition with clear directives, ensuring that the police are duty-bound to investigate any complaints from Sobiya and take immediate action to safeguard her rights and safety.
Bottom Line:
A minor petitioner, later becoming major, seeks safety and security from threats and harm allegedly from certain individuals; Court directs police authorities to ensure her safety and security and allows her to approach them in case of further threats or harassment.
Statutory provision(s): Criminal Law.
Sobiya Kouser v. UT of J&K, (Jammu And Kashmir) : Law Finder Doc Id # 2831340
