Police Detain Six Youth Under PSA After School Protest Fallout in North Kashmir’s Sopore

Sopore, April 24, KNT: Police in North Kashmir’s Sopore have detained six youth under the Public Safety Act (PSA) in connection with alleged disturbances and vandalism during a recent student protest that followed accusations of harassment by a school teacher, who was later suspended.

The action marks an escalation in the aftermath of the protest, which had drawn attention after students raised allegations against a teacher, triggering demonstrations inside and outside the institution. Police had earlier stated that individuals from outside the school were involved in vandalism during the protest.

Sopore Police said six individuals have been booked under PSA after obtaining detention orders from the District Magistrate and have been lodged in District Jail Bhadarwah.

The detainees 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.

Police alleged that the detained youth were involved in instigating unrest and damaging property during the protest, and said their actions posed a threat to public order. The PSA allows for preventive detention without trial for extended periods under specific circumstances.

Police said further identification of individuals linked to the incident is underway, and additional legal action may follow.

Police also issued an advisory urging the public, particularly youth, to avoid involvement in activities that could disturb public order, and called on parents and community members to guide young people.  [KNT]