The Jammu and Kashmir Police have booked at least six individuals under the Public Safety Act (PSA), a stringent law that allows detention without trial for up to two years. The accused have been shifted to District Jail Bhadarwah, located approximately 300 kilometres from Sopore. Authorities stated that the individuals were involved in acts of vandalism and disruption of public order, adding that more suspects are being identified and could face similar action.
The unrest began on April 13, when a student alleged harassment by a teacher, triggering widespread protests involving nearly 1,500 students. While a First Information Report has been registered in connection with the complaint, no arrest has been made in the harassment case so far. A police officer confirmed that the investigation is ongoing and stated that no formal statement regarding the harassment has yet been recorded by the police.
In response to the allegation, the Jammu and Kashmir Education Department ordered an inquiry and suspended the accused teacher. Officials said a detailed report on the matter would be submitted within 15 days.
Despite the initial protests being led by students, police maintained that the situation escalated due to the involvement of external elements. A senior police officer said that individuals from outside the area joined the demonstrations, leading to stone-pelting and vandalism, which created a serious law and order situation.
On Friday, Sopore police released photographs of the six accused on social media after formally booking them under the PSA. The individuals have been identified as Umar Akbar Hajam of Seelu, Salman Ahmed Shala of Shalpora Sopore, Altaf Ahmed Sheikh of Panzipora Tarzoo, Mubashir Ahmed Gilkar of Naseerabad Sopore, Muzammil Mushtaq Changa of Arampora Sopore, and Majid Firdous Dar of Chinkipora Sopore.
According to the official statement, the accused were detained after proper detention warrants were issued by the District Magistrate. Police asserted that these individuals played an active role in instigating unrest, engaging in vandalism, and attempting to disturb peace during the student protest, thereby posing a serious threat to public safety.
The use of the Public Safety Act in the region has once again come under scrutiny. Recently, the Jammu and Kashmir High Court criticised its frequent application, observing that the law is being invoked with less care than a routine charge sheet.
Defending their actions, police reiterated a zero-tolerance policy toward unlawful activities and warned that any attempt to exploit sensitive situations or disrupt peace would result in strict and immediate legal action. Authorities also urged citizens to avoid involvement in unlawful acts and appealed to parents and community leaders to guide young individuals towards constructive engagement.
The incident has highlighted growing concerns over both the handling of harassment allegations and the use of preventive detention laws in conflict-sensitive regions, raising serious questions about law enforcement priorities and civil liberties.
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