Doda (Indian Administered Kashmir) – For the fifth consecutive day, restrictions under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNSS) remained in force across Doda district, where mobile internet services have been shut down for nearly a week. Broadband connections were partially restored on Sunday as authorities began a phased relaxation of curbs imposed after the detention of local legislator Mehraj Malik under the Public Safety Act (PSA).
Mehraj Malik’s Detention
Malik, who also serves as the President of the Aam Aadmi Party’s Jammu and Kashmir unit, was taken into custody on September 8 on charges of disturbing public order. His detention triggered widespread protests and violent demonstrations in parts of the district, prompting the administration to impose sweeping restrictions, close markets, and suspend both mobile and broadband internet services.
According to local reports, Sunday marked the seventh day of his incarceration under PSA. The detention has been a flashpoint for unrest, with supporters demanding his immediate release.
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Phased Relaxation of Curbs
Officials said markets were allowed to open briefly over the weekend, with a six-hour relaxation in restrictions on people’s movement after a high-level meeting chaired by Deputy Commissioner Harvinder Singh and DIG Shridhar Patil along with senior police and civil officers.
Participants included representatives of the Beopar Mandal (traders’ association), transport associations, and civil society leaders, who were assured that restrictions would be lifted gradually if peace is maintained.
Broadband internet services have since been restored across the district, while mobile internet remains suspended for the fifth straight day. On Monday, the Chief Education Officer of Doda ordered the reopening of schools after three weeks, beginning with the Bhaderwah and other educational zones.
Public Reactions and Economic Concerns
Civil society representatives urged the administration to expedite the restoration of normalcy, emphasizing the need to resume internet, transportation, and schooling services. They also highlighted the hardships faced by ordinary citizens in the wake of recent flood-like situations that compounded economic distress.
Traders and transporters appealed for an end to restrictions under Section 163 BNSS, citing heavy financial losses due to prolonged market closures. “People are already suffering from economic setbacks. Continued curbs will only deepen the crisis,” one shopkeeper said.
Security Measures
Authorities praised the role of the public in helping maintain order but stressed the need for vigilance. Business owners and transporters were asked to ensure that CCTV cameras remain functional to deter “troublemakers and miscreants.” Police also urged drivers, laborers, and business-linked workers to report any suspicious activities.
DIG Shridhar Patil commended Doda’s residents for cooperating with law enforcement in preserving peace, calling for “collective responsibility” to prevent disruptions.
The Road Ahead
Officials confirmed that restrictions will now be lifted in phases, with essentials prioritized for immediate delivery within 24 hours. Forces deployed in markets have already been scaled back as signs of normalcy begin to return.
While the administration has promised a gradual return to normal, the continuing detention of Mehraj Malik remains a source of political tension and public discontent in Doda district.
