Public Safety Act (PSA) on MLA Doda Mehraj Malik Triggers Unrest in Doda

GNS ONLINE NEWS PORTAL

JAMMU SEPTEMBER 12:-The imposition of the Public Safety Act (PSA) on AAP MLA Mehraj Malik by Deputy Commissioner Doda has triggered widespread unrest across the district, sparking intense debates on governance, accountability, and democratic rights.

Local residents argue that if Malik truly posed a threat to public order, there would not have been large-scale protests in his support. Demonstrations have erupted not only in Doda but also across other parts of Jammu and Kashmir, with thousands demanding his release.

In contrast, sections of government employees have staged counter-protests, accusing the legislator of misusing his position. This has deepened the divide, pushing administrative and political tensions into the public domain.

The unrest took a tragic turn when a two-year-old child reportedly lost his life during the disturbances. Locals allege the incident was the fallout of what they describe as the administration’s “hasty and harsh” decision, holding the Deputy Commissioner directly responsible.

Critics are now questioning whether silencing an elected representative under the PSA undermines the foundations of democracy. “If an MLA cannot raise his voice against the injustice faced by his constituency, then who else will?” asked one protester, echoing the prevailing sentiment in the Valley.

What began as a district-level controversy has now escalated into a Union Territory-wide issue. Supporters of Malik have leveled serious allegations against the Doda administration, while opposition parties are pressing the Lieutenant Governor’s office for clarity and accountability.

Speaking to the media, Advocate Sheikh Shakeel strongly condemned the suspension of internet services in the Chenab Valley, calling it a “blatant violation” of the Supreme Court’s directions on safeguarding digital rights.

The episode has shaken Doda’s political landscape and reignited a larger debate on the balance between administrative authority and the democratic rights of elected representatives in Jammu and Kashmir.