Indefinite curfew in Chenab valley

Tribune News Service
Doda, August 5

An indefinite curfew was clamped in all major towns of three districts of Chenab valley during the intervening night in apprehension of a backlash from the people over the decision of the Union Government to revoke Article 370 and bifurcate the state.

The District Magistrates of these districts issued midnight orders and people were advised to stay indoors and not violate the order.

During the night, troops were mobilised in the district and orders were issued to them not to allow any civilian movement anywhere. All entry points to Doda were sealed and no vehicle was allowed to enter or leave the town. Curfew was clamped in the sensitive town of Bhaderwah and people stayed indoors since Sunday night.

The district administration was satisfied with the security put in place. “There has been no untoward incident or information from anywhere in the district and people have been staying indoors. I appeal to the people to maintain calm and not come out of their homes unnecessarily,” the Doda DC said.

The people have expressed their dissatisfaction and anger against the Central Government’s decision.

“The decision of the Union Government will have strong repercussions. Union territories are demanding statehood and our state has been bifurcated to create union territories. This is politically motivated decision of the BJP-led government,” said Shuhab Butt, PDP district president, Doda.

Meanwhile, shortage of essential items has already begun creeping in the district as all the shops and business establishments have been closed since Sunday night. “We are facing fuel shortage as no fresh tankers are allowed here. Whatever fuel we had, is getting over,” said an employee of a petrol pump in Doda.