J&K High Court Bar Association asked to explain why "Kashmir dispute" finds mention in Association's Constitution

The Government of Jammu and Kashmir has issued a notice to the the Jammu and Kashmir High Court Bar Association, Srinagar to explain the first objective of its Constitution which mentions one of the Association's objectives as being the "peaceful settlement of Kashmir dispute.".Stating that such a stance is not in consonsance with the Constitution of India, a notice has been issued by the District Magistrate, Srinagar to President of the Bar Association, Srinagar and the Election Committee of the Bar Association on Monday..The Association's Constitution came under the Government's scanner on the eve of elections scheduled for Tuesday. .A press note was circulated for the election of officer bearers, which brought to the notice of the Government the first objective of the Association's Constitution, which is described as:“... to find ways and means, take steps, for resolving the issues concerning public at large including larger issue of peaceful settlement of Kashmir dispute; and for this purpose organize seminars, conventions, delegate it’s members to various places within and outside India, to become members of other associations, bodies or forums which share common outlook with Association.The Government notice triggered by this aspect of the Association's Constitution states, ."You are required to explain your position on the subject since it’s not in consonance with the Constitution of India, whereby J&K is an integral part of the country and not in dispute; and also in conflict with the Advocates Act 1961 which governs the subject viz a viz administrative and legal points…"District Magistrate, Srinagar.The Bar Association has also been asked by the administration to submit its registration certificate, articles of association, information regarding its registered office and executive body among other details..The Chairman of the Bar Association's Election Committee informed Bar & Bench on Monday.“Earlier, the Bar association circulated a press note convening election for various office bearers of association at Srinagar on 10th November 2020. The current notice does not say anything about non-conduct of election which are otherwise scheduled tomorrow (for Tuesday)”,.However, it has been stated that the District Magistrate has received a representation from advocates of the Jammu and Kashmir High Court, wherein serious allegations were levelled and concerns raised regarding the election process and its motive..In response, it was directed,“Therefore, after having considered the issue contained …. and in absence of a response from the JKHCBA on the serious matter (in) relation to sovereignty and integrity of the country...it is hereby ordered that the conduct of election to JKHCBA shall not be allowed” till the Association has clarified its position. .On Tuesday, the Bar Association also reportedly informed that it has deferred the elections, and that a new date would be announced after deliberations. .The district magistrate has also imposed Section 144, CrPC in the premises of the district court complex at Srinagar.