In Jammu and Kashmir, tension prevailed in Doda district and adjoining areas today following the detention of over 80 people and violent clashes between protesters and security forces after the arrest of Aam Admi Party MLA, Mehraj Malik, under the stringent Public Safety Act (PSA). Akashvani Jammu Correspondent reports that prohibitory orders remained in force for the third consecutive day today 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 as the security personnel were maintaining vigilance and 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, was detained on Monday under the PSA for allegedly disturbing public order. He was subsequently lodged in the Kathua district jail.

On Wednesday, protesters tried to defy restrictions, leading to a baton charge by security personnel at three places. Eight police personnel, including a DySP and a SHO, were injured during the clashes. Several protesters, including women, were detained during clashes, and some were released later in the day. About 80 people were taken into preventive custody since Wednesday, of whom 21, including five women, were shifted to Bhaderwah, while others were moved to Kishtwar. Several detainees are expected to be released tonight. However, all schools in the district shall remain closed till Sunda,y while all business establishments remain shut.