Srinagar: Six persons were booked under the stringent Public Safety Act (PSA) in Baramulla district on Friday for allegedly disrupting public order.
Sopore Police booked the six under the PSA for their “involvement in recent law and order disturbances and acts of vandalism during a student protest in Sopore area of the north Kashmir district,” a police spokesperson said.
He identified the persons as Umar Akbar Hajam, a resident of Seelu; Salman Ahmed Shala, a resident of Shalpora Sopore; Altaf Ahmed Sheikh, a resident of Panzipora Tarzoo; Mubashir Ahmed Gilkar, a resident of Naseerabad; Muzammil Mushtaq Changa, a resident of Arampora; and Majid Firdous Dar, a resident of Chinkipora areas of Sopore.
“All the individuals have been detained under PSA after obtaining proper detention warrants from the competent authority (District Magistrate) and have been lodged in District Jail Bhadarwah,” the spokesman said.
He said the six were “actively involved in instigating unrest, indulging in vandalism and attempting to disturb peace during a recent protest by students.
“Their activities posed a serious threat to public order and safety,” he added.
The police said there is zero tolerance for any unlawful activity that threatens peace and stability in the area.
“More individuals involved in the said incidents are being identified and are under process for similar legal action, including detention under PSA,” the spokesperson said.
Earlier this month, protests broke out at Government Girls Higher Secondary School, Sopore after a female student alleged sexual assault by a senior lecturer who was later booked and suspended pending inquiry.
Police also warned that any attempt to exploit sensitive situations or engage in acts that disturb public order will invite strict and immediate action under law.
“The general public, especially youth, are advised to stay away from such unlawful activities and not to fall prey to instigation by anti-social elements. Parents and community leaders are urged to guide their wards and ensure their constructive engagement. J&K Police appreciate the continued cooperation and support of the peace-loving citizens in maintaining normalcy and order and reaffirm their commitment to ensuring peace, security and stability,” the spokesperson said.
