Despite curbs, protests escalate in Doda, Kishtwar, Reasi against MLA’s arrest
Jammu: In Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir Forceful protests entered the second consecutive day in different areas of Jammu region, including Doda, Kishtwar and Reasi, against the arrest of an elected legislator Meraj Malik under the draconian Public Safety Act (PSA) .
According to Kashmir Media Service, despite curfew-like restrictions, people in large numbers poured onto the streets in Doda, Reasi and Kishtwar, staging peaceful demonstrations in support of the jailed MLA. The protesters carried party flags, raised slogans demanding justice and condemned the authorities for targeting a people’s representative through black laws.
In Doda, a massive rally was held outside the Deputy Commissioner’s office, where protesters termed Malik’s detention a direct attack on democratic values. BDC member Fatima Farooq sustained injuries during the protest.
Similar demonstrations were held in Bagga area of Reasi and in Chatroo town of Kishtwar, where locals raised serious questions over the occupation authorities’ claim that Meraj Malik posed a “threat to public order.” “How can an elected MLA be branded a threat to people who themselves voted him to power?” the protesters asked, while asserting that the PSA is being weaponized to silence dissent in the territory.
Meanwhile, in Thanamandi, MLA Muzaffar Iqbal Khan strongly condemned Malik’s arrest, calling it “illegal and unethical.” Speaking to media, he said, “The detention of Meraj Malik is not only a violation of democratic norms but also a calculated move to muzzle the voice of people’s representatives. If such actions continue, the public and their leaders will be left with no choice but to intensify their struggle.”
Khan demanded Malik’s immediate release and urged pro-democracy voices across India and abroad to take notice of the arbitrary detention.
Authorities have further tightened restrictions in Doda and adjoining areas, but the people’s determination to continue their peaceful agitation has sent a strong message against the misuse of repressive laws like the PSA.
