The Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh High Court has upheld the detention of Paramjeet Kumar alias Jungi under the Public Safety Act (PSA). Kumar, described as an alleged habitual criminal, had challenged his preventive detention order.
Justice Sanjay Dhar dismissed Kumar’s petition, observing that he has been involved in at least 12 criminal cases related to drug trafficking, possession of illegal arms, extortion, and other offenses since 2011. The grounds for his detention cited multiple FIRs filed against him up until June 2023.
According to the court order, Kumar has been able to secure bail in all but one of the cases against him. However, the detaining authority expressed apprehensions that he may also get bail in the latest FIR registered on June 1, 2023, under sections related to house trespass, causing hurt, theft, and the Arms Act. Justice Dhar observed that Kumar’s continuous involvement in criminal activities, despite being prosecuted repeatedly, showed that the ordinary laws had failed to deter him. The court found compelling circumstances for preventive detention to prevent him from indulging in further criminal acts.
The court rejected Kumar’s contentions that he was not provided the entire material forming the basis of the detention grounds, not explained the grounds in a language he understands, and not informed of his right to make a representation. Dismissing the petition, Justice Dhar stated, “The petition lacks merit and the same is, accordingly dismissed.”
