SRINAGAR: Prohibitory restrictions remained in force for the second consecutive day on Wednesday in Jammu and Kashmir’s Doda district, following clashes between protesters and security forces during demonstrations against the detention of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLA Mehraj Malik under the Public Safety Act (PSA), reports Daily Excelsior.
Shops and business establishments stayed shut in Doda and Bhaderwah towns, with traffic movement reported thin. Additional security personnel were deployed in sensitive areas, including Bhaderwah, Gandoh, Bhalessa, Chilli Pingal, Kahara, and Thathri, officials said.
The restrictions, extended to the Bhaderwah valley, prohibit the assembly of four or more persons. The order issued by Additional District Magistrate Anil Kumar Thakur also bans provocative speeches, slogans, gestures, and the carrying of lathis or sharp-edged weapons. Authorities warned that violations would invite punitive action.
On Tuesday, at least eight police personnel, including two officers, were injured in clashes after Malik’s detention and subsequent transfer to Kathua jail for allegedly disturbing public order. Protests also spread to Jammu, Rajouri, Poonch, and Kishtwar.
“The situation is peaceful. There are no reports of any untoward incidents from anywhere,” a police officer said on Wednesday, adding that no fresh protests were reported. Locals complained of internet slowdowns, but district authorities attributed the issues to technical restoration work, denying any deliberate curbs.
Political parties, including the National Conference, PDP, and People’s Conference, condemned Malik’s detention, calling it an “assault on democracy.” Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said the MLA posed no threat and described the PSA action as “wrong.”
