Jammu: An uneasy calm prevailed in Doda district of Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday, where prohibitory orders remained in force following clashes between protesters and security forces over the detention of AAP MLA Mehraj Malik under the Public Safety Act (PSA).
The restrictions, extended to the Bhaderwah valley, led to a complete shutdown of shops and businesses in the town. On Tuesday, at least eight policemen, including two officers, were injured during demonstrations after Malik was lodged in Kathua jail for allegedly disturbing public order.
Authorities sealed Doda town and adjoining areas, deploying additional forces in sensitive pockets such as Bhaderwah, Gandoh, Bhalessa, Chilli Pingal, Kahara, and Thathri. All educational institutions and commercial establishments remained shut, with residents advised to stay indoors.
A police officer said the situation was “peaceful” with no fresh reports of protests.
AAP leaders, including MP Sanjay Singh and senior leader Imran Hussain, visited Jammu to rally support. Singh termed Malik’s detention “illegal and unconstitutional,” accusing the BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi of targeting AAP leaders through repressive tactics.
“The law meant for terrorists has been misused against an elected representative who only raised his people’s concerns,” Singh told reporters. “We will fight this injustice in the streets, in Parliament, and, if required, in the Supreme Court.”
The Additional District Magistrate of Doda had imposed restrictions on gatherings of four or more persons, provocative speeches, slogan-raising, and carrying weapons. The SSP was instructed to strictly enforce the order, with violators facing legal action.
Shops and traffic movement in Doda and Bhaderwah remained affected, while locals complained of internet slowdowns—denied by officials, who cited technical restoration work.
Protests also spread to Jammu, Rajouri, Poonch, and Kishtwar. Opposition parties including the National Conference, PDP, and People’s Conference condemned Malik’s detention, calling it an “assault on democracy.” Former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah also said Malik posed no threat and termed the PSA detention “wrong.”
