DODA, SEPTEMBER 15: After nearly three weeks of tension and restrictions, normalcy began returning to Doda district on Sunday with the reopening of educational institutions and the restoration of broadband internet services. Authorities confirmed that restrictions imposed under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) have been lifted across the district, with the exception of Kahara and Chilli-Pingal areas, where concerns of mischief and unrest still persist.
Addressing a press conference, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Doda, Sandeep Mehta, said that law enforcement remains on high alert in Kahara and Chilli-Pingal. “There are credible inputs suggesting the presence of elements with nefarious designs in these pockets. Restrictions will continue there until the administration is fully satisfied with the ground situation,” he stated. Police presence has been strengthened in these areas to prevent any untoward incident.
The SSP also cautioned the public against sharing provocative or misleading content online, reiterating that violations under Section 163 BNSS will invite legal action. “We appeal to social media users, particularly the youth, to stay away from conspiracies aimed at disturbing peace. The region has already suffered enough; let us work together to ensure calm prevails,” Mehta urged.
Responding to media queries, Mehta disclosed that 81 people were initially detained during the protests following the detention of AAP MLA Mehraj Malik under the Public Safety Act (PSA). Of them, 70 have already been released, while the remaining 11 continue to be held for questioning but are likely to be released soon.
On the sensitive matter of a child’s death during the protests, the SSP confirmed that a high-level inquiry committee has been constituted, headed by a senior officer, to investigate the circumstances of the incident. “We want full transparency. The family deserves answers, and accountability will be ensured,” he added.
Regarding Malik’s detention, Mehta said the law must take its own course, pointing out that the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has already constituted a legal team to challenge the PSA detention in court. “This matter will be decided through legal means. Our responsibility is to maintain peace on the ground,” he clarified.
Authorities also signaled that mobile internet services, which remain suspended, would be restored in a phased manner once the situation in the district stabilizes further. With schools reopening, markets reviving, and broadband services resuming, the district is gradually moving back towards normal life, though Kahara and Chilli-Pingal continue to be closely monitored.