Srinagar, Feb 17: A Court in South Kashmir’s Shopian district ordered arrest of journalist and columnist Gowhar Nazir Geelani to ensure his appearance before it on February 19 in “order to maintain peace and public tranquility”.

“In view of the non-appearance of Gowhar Nazir Geelani after serving notice upon him under section 107 and 151 CrPC on February 3, you (SHO Heerpora Shopian) are directed to arrest and produce the above said person (Geelani) before this court on 19/02/2022 in order to maintain peace and public tranquility in the jurisdiction of this court,” reads the order by the Executive Magistrate 1st Class Shopian.

An official associated with prosecution  saud that Gowhar had been evading appearance and as such his order of arrest to produce him were passed by the court. gns