Section 163 imposed in Doda district ahead of Mehraj Malik’s rally; What will happen?

The Doda district administration has imposed restrictions under Section 163 of of BNSS ahead of the planned rally by AAP MLA Mehraj Malik after his release from Kathua jail recently.

Below is the order by the administration:

1. Whereas, It has been observed that some people are planning for demonstrations and are trying to attract gatherings; and
2. Whereas, for these unauthorized assemblies there is reasonable apprehension of occurrence of any untoward incident which could escalate into public disturbance and is immense threat to public peace and public safety; and
3. Whereas, these unlawful gatherings are being planned at Clock Tower Chowk near SSP Office Doda, road leading to Sports Stadium, Stadium upto Akramabad and from Clock Tower upto Old Bus stand without any security arrangements. They may become source of obstruction, annoyance to the commuters, passengers, pedestrians etc; and
4. Whereas, in view of the prevailing law and order situation besides keeping in view the safety and security of common masses there is urgent need to take precautionary measures to prevent public disorder or danger that may threaten public peace and tranquility.

Therefore, in exercise of powers vested in me under Section 163 of BNSS, I, Krishan Lal, JKAS, District Magistrate Doda hereby orders a complete ban over any unauthorized gathering of 05 or more than 05 persons and organizing Protests or Dharnas in the public places i.e Clock Tower Chowk, Dessa road upto Akramabad, Sports Stadium, within the radius of 100 meters from the JK Sports Stadium Doda and from Clock Tower up to old Bus Stand except for the events for which the permission has been already granted. Senior Superintendent of Police Doda shall implement this order in letter and spirit. Violators shall be booked under Section 223 of the BNSS, 2023.

As the notice cannot be served individually to all concerned, this order is hereby passed ex-parte. It is being promulgated for the information of public at large and shall be published on district website, newspapers and by affixing copies on the notice board of Deputy Commissioner Office Doda, Senior Superintendent of Police Doda, Additional Deputy Commissioner Doda, Assistant Commissioner Revenue Doda, Tehsildar Doda, Dy. SP HQA Doda and SHO Police Station Doda.

Given under my hand and seal on 3rd Day of May 2026 and shall remain in force for a period of 02 months from the date of its issuance.