Indian politician (1936–2012)
Ghulam Mohi-ud-Din Malik (31 July 1936 – 1 September 2012) was an Indian politician and advocate, known for his role as the speaker of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly from 1977 to 1981.[1] He was a member of the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (NC).
Early life and education
Malik was born on 31 July 1936 in Pampore, Jammu and Kashmir. He obtained his MA and LLB from Aligarh Muslim University and began his legal practice in 1958 at the Pulwama Court, later moved to the Jammu and Kashmir High Court in Srinagar.[2]
Career
Malik was actively engaged in the Kashmir Freedom Movement from his school days and joined the Plebiscite Front after 1953. He was imprisoned multiple times for his role in political activities. He was one of the members transitioning the Plebiscite Front into the National Conference, where he became one of the prominent figures in the party.[2]
He also assisted Mirza Mohammad Afzal Beg during negotiations with G. Parthasarathy, which led to the historical Indira–Sheikh Accord of 1975.[2]
Malik contested the 1977 general assembly elections as a candidate for the National Conference from the Pampore constituency which he won. On 8 September 1977, he was unanimously elected as the speaker of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly. In addition to his role as speaker, he served as chairman of the State Branch of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association and was a member of the Indo–Arab Cultural Society.[2]
Tenure as speaker
During his time as speaker, Malik faced political challenges, particularly a feud between Sheikh Abdullah, the chief minister, and Mirza Afzal Beg. He was removed by NC MLAs after l Abdullah ordered.[1]
After his expulsion from the position, Malik, along with Bhim Singh of the Jammu and Kashmir National Panthers Party (NPP), filed petitions in the Supreme Court of India against the decision, which resulted in a stay order directing compliance with parliamentary procedures.[1]
Controversies
Malik was one of the beneficiaries who allegedly occupied the state land under Roshni Act.[3]
References