Doda/Jammu, September 13, 2025 : Normal life continued to remain disrupted in Jammu and Kashmir’s Doda district for the fifth consecutive day on Saturday, following the detention of sitting AAP MLA Mehraj Malik under the stringent Public Safety Act (PSA), officials said.
Malik, who is also the chief of AAP’s Jammu & Kashmir unit, was detained on Monday for allegedly disturbing public order. His detention triggered violent protests across the district, compelling authorities to impose prohibitory restrictions and suspend mobile internet and broadband services.
Despite a two-hour relaxation in restrictions on Friday evening, which passed peacefully, streets remained deserted on Saturday morning. Police and paramilitary forces were actively patrolling the area, and shopkeepers were instructed not to open their shops.
Officials noted that several detainees were released on personal bonds, but security remained tight, particularly in sensitive zones. The district witnessed protests and violent clashes until Wednesday, as demonstrators attempted to defy restrictions. Security personnel resorted to baton charges at multiple locations, during which eight police personnel, including a deputy superintendent of police and a station house officer, were injured.
In view of the ongoing situation, the Chief Education Officer ordered the closure of all schools in Doda district until Sunday.
Local residents are appealing for the immediate lifting of restrictions to resume their normal activities. “We want the administration to lift the restrictions on the movement of the people immediately. Heavy rains for over two weeks already disrupted our lives, and now these restrictions are compounding our problems,” said Mohammad Shaban, a local resident.
The situation in Doda continues to be tense, with heightened security measures in place as authorities monitor the developments closely.
