J & K: Doda Tense, Prohibitory Orders Remain In Force

Doda- Tension prevailed in Jammu and Kashmir's Doda district and adjoining areas on Thursday following the detention of over 80 people and violent clashes between protesters and security forces after the arrest of AAP MLA Mehraj Malik under the stringent Public Safety Act (PSA).

Prohibitory orders remained in force for the third consecutive day on Thursday in Doda district, where mobile internet and WiFi services continued to remain suspended as a precautionary measure.

The administration invoked Section 163 of the BNSS Act restricting public movement without prior permission on Monday.

The situation remained calm overnight with no fresh protests reported, officials said, adding security personnel are maintaining vigilance.

Security forces were deployed in strength around Doda town, Bhaderwah, Gandoh, and Thathri amid tension over alleged administrative high-handedness. Concertina wires were installed near government offices to prevent any untoward incident.

Police vehicles patrolled the area making announcements urging residents to stay indoors.

Malik, who won the Doda seat in the 2024 Assembly elections by over 4,500 votes, was detained on Monday under the PSA for allegedly disturbing public order, officials said. He was subsequently lodged in the Kathua district jail.

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