Administration in Kishtwar has invoked the draconian Public Safety Act (PSA) against five individuals in the district citing their history of anti-national activities.
Those detained include Mohd Abdullah Gujjar from Sigdi Bhata, Noor Din from Kakerwagan, Ghulam Nabi Choppan from Trungi (Dachhan), Mohd Jaffer Sheikh from Nattas (Dool), and Mohd Ramzan from Dangduroo (Dachhan).
Authorities said these individuals posed a threat to public order and the security of the Union Territory, with ongoing involvement in illegal activities despite prior warnings. The police executed the PSA warrants promptly upon receipt.
Additionally, the District Magistrate of Kishtwar, ordered close monitoring of 22 others suspected of obstructing key national projects, as per officials.
The officials further claimed that these individuals are believed to be engaging in “activities that could undermine developmental efforts” through misinformation and anti-national sentiment, allegedly as part of a wider conspiracy to “delay significant projects.”
“I’ve been informed that this environmental activist has been declared a threat to security and detained under the PSA in Doda,” PDP leader Firdous Ahmed Tak said.
I’ve been informed that this environmental activist has been declared a threat to security and detained under the PSA in #Doda. God help us all. Now whom shall we seek answers @JKNC_ or @BJP4India. pic.twitter.com/fTvgPN60Hv
— Firdous Tak (@takfirdous) November 10, 2024
Anzer Ayoub, a journalist from Chenab valley suggested that the five were booked for voicing concern over hydro power projects.
“Jailing 5 union leaders in #Kishtwar under PSA and labeling them as “criminals” for raising voice against hydro projects that harm locals is a gross abuse of power. Silencing voices for local rights isn’t justice” Anzar wrote on twitter.