SRINAGAR: In a significant development, a Srinagar court has issued a stay order on the upcoming Kashmir Traders & Manufacturers Federation (KTMF) elections in response to a lawsuit filed by Qazi Tauseef, an Executive Council member of KTMF and President of Munawarabad Traders Association.
The lawsuit challenges the age restrictions imposed on candidates in the election, arguing that these restrictions are unconstitutional and discriminatory. The election by-law, which imposes age restrictions on candidates, has come under scrutiny as many young members of KTMF have sought to participate in the electoral process.
The Court of 3rd Additional Munsiff Srinagar, presided over by Muneer Ahmad, observed, “Court directs respondents to consider the claim/representation of Plaintiff regarding the relaxation of the age bar. Until then, the respondents shall not proceed with the election proceedings.”
Qazi Tauseef, a member of the business community, initiated this legal action to remove what they see as a barrier to fair participation in the democratic process. “The age restrictions outlined in the election bylaws have been a subject of controversy as they prevent individuals below a certain age from running for office. Allowing younger members to run for elections can bring fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and energy into the organization, which is vital for its long-term vitality in trade and commerce in J&K, particularly in KTMF,” Qazi observed.
“Restricting candidacy based solely on age is discriminatory, especially since no election process in the entire country carries such an arbitrary condition. Even a person aged 18 or older is entitled to participate in elections to run the country, yet the current condition in the constitution of the KTMF bars participation in its Supreme Council,” he said.
The court’s decision to grant a stay on the election is a significant development in the midst of an already closely watched electoral process. The election, originally scheduled for October 8, is now on hold pending further legal proceedings. Legal experts anticipate that this case could set a precedent for business organisations’ electoral bylaws in J&K and potentially impact individuals who have held positions unconstitutionally for decades. (GNS)
