Normalcy returning in Doda, broadband services restored

Doda, Sep 15: The Doda Police administration on Monday said it is monitoring the overall situation in the district following protests in the aftermath of the detention of MLA Mehraj Malik under the Public Safety Act (PSA), adding that 81 people were held in total, of whom 70 have been released and 11 others being questioned.
Addressing a press conference, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Doda, Sandeep Mehta said that the broadband Wi-Fi has been restored in the district, but police are seeing a lot of verified and unverified content being shared, including old and provocative videos. “We want to ensure that nothing on social media promotes violence or disrupts communal harmony,” he added.
Mehta said that both verified and unverified content, including old and provocative videos, have been circulating on social media. He referred to an order issued by the District Magistrate on September 3 under Section 163 BNSS, which provides an advisory to social media users.
The Advisory warns that content promoting violence, hooliganism, or attacks on communities and communal harmony will be treated as a violation of the law.
Mehta requested social media users, particularly youth, to refrain from participating in or promoting activities that could disturb public order.
Regarding social media monitoring, Mehta said the police are actively identifying individuals and groups posting old or provocative content under the guise of media activity. No action has been taken yet against these accounts, but the SSP warned that those involved in such activities should stop and support the ongoing efforts to maintain normalcy.
Addressing reports of account blockages on platforms such as Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram, Mehta said no official report of 300 blocked accounts exists. Channels, groups, and individuals promoting unrest are being monitored.
On the status of mobile internet, Mehta said it will be restored gradually as the situation improves. Broadband Wi-Fi has been restored, and 2G and 5G services will follow.
Mehta also clarified that restrictions remain in several areas due to ongoing reports of attempts to disturb peace. He said sufficient police manpower is in place to handle any protests or law-and-order issues and urged public cooperation in maintaining peaceful conditions.
On the death of a two-year-old girl during the protests, Mehta said a senior officer has been appointed to investigate and appropriate action will be taken based on the report. (KNO)