Low-Intensity Blast Rocks Doda Amid Tensions Over AAP MLA Mehraj Malik’s Detention
Tensions mount in Doda after a low intensity blast near Jama Masjid, days after AAP MLA Mehraj Malik’s detention under the Public Safety Act. Image courtesy: RNA
A low-intensity blast occurred on September 11, 2025, in the afternoon in Thukar Mohalla of Doda town, sparking fresh unease in the already tense hilly district. Officials confirmed that no casualties were reported in the incident, which took place near the Jama Masjid.
Police sources said two individuals have been detained for questioning as part of the ongoing investigation. Senior police and forensic teams, led by DIG Ramban, Doda and Kishtwar range, Shridhar Patil, rushed to the spot to collect evidence and ascertain the nature of the explosion. “Our teams are on the job to determine the cause of the blast,” Patil told reporters.
What is the back story to the blast?
The explosion comes at a sensitive time for Doda, where political tensions have escalated following the detention of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLA Mehraj Malik under the Public Safety Act (PSA).
The district administration ordered Malik’s detention on September 8, 2025, citing him as a threat to public peace. The legislator, facing multiple FIRs and police diary entries, has been booked under the PSA for one year.
Malik’s detention triggered street protests by his supporters on September 9, which were met with police action, including a lathi charge and tear gas shelling. To contain unrest, authorities imposed prohibitory orders under Section 263 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita on Wednesday, restricting gatherings of four or more people in public places.
How have the political parties reacted?
The move has drawn sharp political reactions. Opposition parties such as the National Conference, Congress, and the PDP condemned Malik’s detention as an “attack on democracy,” while the BJP backed the administration, describing the MLA as a habitual lawbreaker.
Although the blast caused no injuries, the incident has heightened security concerns in the communally sensitive district. Police have intensified patrols and urged the public to remain calm as investigations continue.
With political fault lines deepening and security challenges mounting, Doda remains on edge as authorities balance law-and-order imperatives with growing discontent among Malik’s supporters.
