An uneasy calm prevailed in Jammu and Kashmir’s Doda district on Wednesday, where prohibitory orders remained in force after clashes between protesters and security forces. The clashes broke out during protests against the detention of AAP MLA Mehraj Malik under the Public Safety Act (PSA).
The restrictions were extended to Bhaderwah valley, where all shops and businesses remained shut. At least eight police personnel, including two officers, were hurt in Tuesday’s clashes. Protests had erupted after Malik was detained under the PSA and sent to Kathua jail for allegedly disturbing public order.
Reports said the situation stayed tense through the night in Doda, especially in the Doda Assembly constituency. Officials sealed Doda town and nearby areas, while additional security was deployed in sensitive locations, including Bhaderwah, Gandoh, Bhalessa, Chilli Pingal, Kahara, and Thathri. Business establishments and schools were closed, and people were asked to stay indoors.
“The situation is peaceful. There are no reports of any untoward incidents from anywhere,” a police officer said, adding that no fresh protests were reported.
AAP MP Sanjay Singh reached Doda along with senior AAP leader Imran Hussain. He called Malik’s detention “illegal” and “unconstitutional.”
Talking to mediapersons, Singh said, "The section used against terrorists has been slapped on an elected member for raising voice for the people of his constituency. It is very wrong. We will fight this injustice on the streets, in Parliament, and, if necessary, in the Supreme Court,” he said. He accused Prime
Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP government of targeting the AAP using repressive measures.
“They have previously jailed Arvind Kejriwal, Manish Sisodia, Satyendar Jain, and even me. Today, Mehraj Malik has been imprisoned,” Singh said. He added that AAP leaders had come to Jammu to meet party workers and decide the next steps against what they called “political victimisation.”
Authorities in Doda had imposed prohibitory restrictions on Tuesday, citing fears of unrest and possible unlawful gatherings. Additional District Magistrate Anil Kumar Thakur’s order banned assemblies of four or more people until further notice. The order also prohibited provocative speeches, slogans, or gestures that could disturb peace and harmony. Carrying sticks or sharp weapons in public was also banned.
The Senior Superintendent of Police in Doda was instructed to strictly enforce these orders. Officials warned that any violations would lead to legal action.
As a result of the restrictions, shops and businesses stayed shut in Doda and Bhaderwah towns as well as other areas. Roads saw very little traffic. Locals reported internet slowdowns, but officials denied imposing any curbs, saying the issues were due to technical repair work.
Protests also spread to Jammu, Rajouri, Poonch, and Kishtwar. The National Conference, PDP, and People’s Conference all condemned Malik’s detention, calling it an “attack on democracy.” Former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah also said Malik posed no threat and called the PSA detention “wrong.”
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