Ganderbal, April 7: Police in Sonamarg on Tuesday booked a man for allegedly operating with a forged license during an ongoing drive against unauthorized service providers in the tourist area, officials said.
The action was taken as part of a special enforcement drive aimed at regulating tourist-related activities and ensuring compliance with the law in the popular destination.
The individual has been identified as Muzafar Ahmad Khatana, son of Ghulam Nabi Khatana, a resident of Sumbal Bala Gund in Ganderbal district. Police said he was found operating in Sonamarg using a forged license.
Cognizance of the matter was taken, and a First Information Report (FIR) was registered at Police Station Sonamarg under relevant sections of law. Investigation into the case has been initiated.
Police indicated that further arrests are expected as the probe continues to identify other individuals, including possible co-accused or conspirators involved in the alleged offense.
Officials said the ongoing drive is part of a broader effort to curb unauthorized service providers operating in tourist areas, which has been a recurring concern.
In previous enforcement actions, police had detained and fined 23 unauthorized operators found violating provisions of the Tourist Trade Act, 1978.
Authorities reiterated that strict action will continue against those found operating without valid authorization or using forged documents in tourist zones. [KNT]
