Image Source: Kashmir News Observer
After a week of unrest and digital blackout, the district of Doda in Jammu and Kashmir is gradually returning to normalcy. Authorities have restored broadband internet services, signaling a cautious but optimistic shift in the region’s stability. The move follows days of protests triggered by the detention of AAP MLA Mehraj Malik under the Public Safety Act (PSA), which had led to widespread disruptions, including the suspension of both mobile and broadband internet services.
The administration, in coordination with civil society groups, is now implementing a phased plan to restore essential services, including mobile internet, transport, and education, while maintaining vigilance against misinformation and unrest.
Key Highlights from the Ground
Broadband internet services were restored on September 15, 2025, after a week-long suspension.
Mobile internet services, including 2G and 5G, will be reinstated gradually based on ground assessments.
81 individuals were detained during the protests; 70 have been released, and 11 remain under investigation.
Authorities are actively monitoring social media to curb the spread of provocative or misleading content.
Civil society groups have pledged cooperation with law enforcement to maintain peace and order.
Timeline of Events and Response Measures
Triggering Incident
AAP MLA Mehraj Malik was detained on September 8 under the PSA for allegedly disturbing public order.
His detention sparked protests across Doda, prompting authorities to impose prohibitory restrictions and suspend internet services.
Escalation and Containment
Violent protests led to the deployment of additional security forces and temporary closure of markets and schools.
A tragic incident involving the death of a two-year-old girl during the unrest is under investigation by a senior officer.
Restoration Begins
On September 13, officials held a meeting with civil society representatives, including traders and transporters, to discuss a roadmap for restoring services.
Broadband services were restored on September 15, and markets reopened with reduced security presence.
Mobile internet will be restored in phases, with authorities closely monitoring the situation.
Digital Monitoring and Advisory
SSP Doda, Sandeep Mehta, confirmed that both verified and unverified content—some of it old and provocative—is circulating on social media.
An advisory issued under Section 163 BNSS warns users against sharing content that promotes violence or disrupts communal harmony.
Police are identifying individuals and groups responsible for spreading unrest through digital platforms, though no formal action has been taken yet.
Mehta urged youth and social media users to support peace efforts and refrain from inflammatory online behavior.
Community Engagement and Support
Representatives from Beopar Mandal and the Transport Association have assured full cooperation with the administration.
Civil society leaders emphasized the need for restoring services to ease public distress, especially after recent flood-like conditions in the district.
The administration has encouraged businesses to activate CCTV systems to help monitor and deter disruptive activities.
Looking Ahead
Schools are expected to reopen soon, and transport services will resume in a phased manner.
Authorities remain cautious, maintaining restrictions in sensitive areas while gradually lifting curbs elsewhere.
The district’s leadership has praised the public for their role in maintaining peace and foiling attempts to incite further unrest.
Conclusion
Doda’s journey back to normalcy is a testament to coordinated governance, community resilience, and cautious optimism. With broadband services now active and mobile internet on the horizon, the district is poised to reconnect—digitally and socially. As authorities and citizens work together to restore calm, the focus remains on healing, rebuilding trust, and ensuring that peace prevails.
Sources: MSN News, Kashmir Life, Kashmir Reader, The Hindu
Advertisement
Advertisement
