Why have schools been closed and Internet suspended in J&K's Doda amid protests against MLA's arrest?
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Synopsis
The recent detention of MLA Mehraj Malik has led to significant disruptions in Doda, Jammu. Authorities have closed schools and suspended Internet services to manage escalating protests. This situation raises critical questions about democracy and public safety. What does this mean for the community and the political landscape in Jammu and Kashmir?
Key Takeaways
- Schools in Doda are closed until September 14.
- Internet services have been suspended in the area.
- MLA Mehraj Malik has been detained under the Public Safety Act.
- Protests have erupted following the MLA's arrest.
- Political leaders have condemned the use of the PSA.
Jammu, Sep 11 (NationPress) On the fourth day of MLA Doda Mehraj Malik’s detention under the Public Safety Act (PSA), authorities have decided to close schools in the district until September 14 and have also suspended Internet services in the area.
The daily lives of residents in Doda were significantly disrupted on Thursday as the authorities implemented these measures to ensure peace and order.
In response to the protests following the MLA's arrest under the PSA, both police and CRPF forces were deployed in significant numbers throughout Doda district.
The PSA allows authorities to detain individuals without judicial oversight for up to two years.
The District Magistrate of Doda justified the detention of Mehraj Malik under the PSA, stating that it was necessary to maintain order within the district.
Prominent political figures, including J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, former CM Mehbooba Mufti, and other leaders except those from the BJP, have condemned the MLA's detention.
Omar Abdullah met with Mehraj Malik’s father on Wednesday, suggesting that the issues surrounding the MLA could be addressed in the Legislative Assembly. He criticized the detention under the PSA, arguing that it undermines democratic principles.
The District Magistrate communicated the details of the MLA’s detention to the Assembly Speaker as per established protocols.
A statement from the Speaker’s office indicated that the communication was received from the relevant DM, clarifying that it does not imply approval of the detention.
Members of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) visited Mehraj Malik's father, pledging their support in the legal battle for the MLA’s release.
Mehraj Malik’s father has maintained that his son is innocent and that the PSA has been misused to suppress his ability to raise public concerns.
Point of View
It is crucial to approach this situation with a balanced perspective. The actions taken by authorities, including the closure of schools and suspension of Internet services, reflect a response to potential unrest. However, the implications of using the Public Safety Act raise concerns about civil liberties and the democratic process. Our responsibility is to ensure that the voices of the public are heard while maintaining order.
NationPress
21/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why were schools closed in Doda?
Schools were closed to maintain peace and prevent further protests in light of MLA Mehraj Malik's detention under the Public Safety Act.
What is the Public Safety Act?
The Public Safety Act is legislation that allows authorities to detain individuals without judicial intervention for up to two years.
Who condemned MLA Mehraj Malik's detention?
Prominent political figures, including J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and former CM Mehbooba Mufti, criticized the detention.
What measures were taken by the police in Doda?
Police and CRPF forces were deployed in strength throughout Doda district to manage the protests.
How did Mehraj Malik's family respond to his detention?
Mehraj Malik's father stated that his son is innocent and that the Public Safety Act was misused against him.
