The High Court of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh has directed the J&K government, led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, to allot suitable accommodation to the Press Club of Kashmir, ensuring the institution’s smooth functioning.
The order followed a petition filed by the club’s president, M. Saleem Pandit, who sought proper space for the club, which is currently being operated from a hotel at Amira Kadal, Srinagar. In his interim ruling, Hon’ble Justice Javid Iqbal Wani instructed the government to either restore the club’s earlier premises at Polo View, Srinagar, or provide an alternative space that meets its requirements. The court also directed the administration to consider the petitioner’s request diligently.
The writ of mandamus was admitted, and the next hearing has been scheduled for October 7, 2025. In his petition, Mr. Pandit also sought the sanction of ₹5 crore for the club’s operations, citing that a similar grant was extended to the previous body in 2018.
Speaking at a press conference held at a local hotel, Mr. Pandit expressed gratitude to the court for supporting the rights and welfare of journalists in the valley. He announced that membership in the club would be granted only after police verification, in order to dispel any future doubts regarding its integrity.
Mr. Pandit further outlined the club’s vision document, underscoring its commitment to enhancing journalists’ welfare and helping them lead dignified lives as responsible members of society. He urged members of the media to uphold professionalism, maintain decorum, and avoid unethical practices such as blackmail, which, he noted, damage the credibility of the fraternity.
Responding to a query, Mr. Pandit stated that elections to the Press Club would be conducted only after the institution becomes fully operational with all necessary facilities in place. He alleged that Chief Minister Omar Abdullah was keen on appointing his own nominees to the executive body to influence the club’s functioning in line with party interests.
He clarified that only journalists with clean records, free from any anti-social allegations, and possessing a sound educational background would be eligible to contest the elections.
Mr. Pandit also revealed that the constitution of the Press Club of Kashmir had been formally endorsed by the Jammu and Kashmir government after receiving approvals from both the Law Department and the Registrar of Societies.
EOM
