Doda/Jammu: Markets in Doda town and other major areas of the hilly district of Jammu and Kashmir reopened on Saturday after authorities announced a six-hour relaxation in restrictions imposed earlier this week following the detention of AAP MLA Mehraj Malik under the Public Safety Act (PSA), officials said.
Malik, who heads AAP’s J&K unit, was detained on Monday for allegedly disturbing public order. His arrest had triggered violent protests, leading to curbs on public movement and suspension of mobile and broadband services.
Officials said shops were allowed to open in Doda, Bhaderwah, and Assar from 12 noon to 6 pm. Vehicular traffic also resumed, and the relaxation period remained peaceful with no untoward incidents reported.
The decision was taken after police and the civil administration held talks with civil society members and the local chamber of commerce, who recommended a phased return to normalcy.
However, restrictions on gatherings of five or more people under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) remain in force, officials said.
Deputy Commissioner Harvinder Singh assured that the situation was fully under control, adding that schools would reopen next week after safety checks of buildings affected by recent floods and heavy rains.
Senior Superintendent of Police Sandeep Mehta said internet services will continue to remain suspended to prevent the spread of rumours and misinformation.
Welcoming the move, local residents said the relaxation provided much-needed relief. “We suffered losses over the past several days, and even basic items were hard to find. This step has given us some respite,” said Mushtaq Ahmad, a trader in Doda, who also urged early restoration of internet services for students and businesses.
On Friday evening, authorities had briefly eased restrictions for two hours in Doda and nearby towns.
