Security Tightened in J&K Amid Hazratbal Dispute and Doda Tensions

Quick Summary

• Security in Jammu and Kashmir heightened amid unrest over the Hazratbal Emblem controversy and detention of AAP MLA Mehraj Malik under the Public Safety Act (PSA).
• Prohibitory orders enforced in Doda district; shops remain closed,Internet shutdown continues for the fourth consecutive day.
• Friday prayers permitted under tight police surveillance; most gatherings were peaceful.
• J&K Police instructed too monitor social media closely to prevent misinformation from spreading.
• AAP protests against Malik’s detention, urging CM omar Abdullah to convene an emergency Assembly session and visit Doda.
• In Kashmir valley, religious rights questioned as cleric Mirwaiz Umar Farooq was denied permission to lead prayers at Jama Masjid and placed under house arrest.
• Opposition leaders raised concerns over alleged suppression of religious freedoms and constitutional rights tied to Article 25.
• Farooq Abdullah offered prayers emphasizing global solidarity among Muslims while calling for peace in J&K during his visit to Hazratbal shrine alongside CM Omar Abdullah.
• Political figures speculate disturbances are engineered deliberately amid debates on delaying J&K statehood restoration.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The dual incidents-the PSA detention of Mehraj Malik and the Hazratbal Emblem controversy-continue fueling political tension across Jammu & Kashmir. While security measures like curfews, Internet restrictions, and surveillance aim at restoring order, they also deepen frustrations among locals. Prolonged unrest coudl have economic repercussions due to shop closures or curtailed mobility.

Religious freedom challenges underscore deep-rooted communal sensitivity unique to J&K’s socio-political fabric. Statements by prominent clerics like Mirwaiz Umar Farooq emphasize widespread dissatisfaction with alleged interference in personal liberties. This sentiment resonates politically as parties-including PDP opposition leaders-invoke constitutional safeguards while accusing governance failures.

Restoration of calm hinges on clear dialog among stakeholders without escalating emotional or partisan divides further.Addressing grievances constitutionally ensures representation without compromising unity-a principle echoed across both political divisions advocating peace during volatile times.

Read more: Published by The Hindu – September 13, 2025