In Jammu and Kashmir, the Doda district, along with some adjoining areas, remained tense as violent clashes erupted between protesters and security personnel. Clashes were triggered by the detention of the Aam Aadmi Party MLA, Mehraj Malik, representing Doda constituency under the stringent Public Safety Act (PSA). The protests started yesterday and continued across the district with reports of cops baton-charging the protesters and using tear gas to disperse the crowds.

Prohibitory orders have been imposed, and additional security forces were deployed in sensitive areas while the clashes spread to neighbouring Bhaderwah town, which resulted in injuries to both protesters and cops, including two officers. People from various areas attempted to defy restrictions in protest, following which cops baton-charged them and detained some protesters, including a few women and released them by the evening. Mobile internet and WiFi services were suspended as a precautionary measure.

The administration has also ordered the closure of all educational institutions and business establishments, except medical stores, across the district. Presence of security personnel in good numbers was there in Bhaderwah, Doda, Thathri and Gandoh with Police vehicles continuing to make repeated announcements on loudspeakers appealing people to remain indoors and cooperate with authorities. To limit movement and keep crowds away from Government offices, concertina wires were fixed at many places. The detention of Mehraj Malik has been flayed by several political parties.