Pune police have imposed a 14-day prohibitory order across the city from Tuesday, restricting public gatherings, processions and several other activities until August 31.
The order comes ahead of major festivals and the Congress’ “Chhatron Ki Goonj” event scheduled for August 22.
protests and demonstrations as the reason for the restrictions under the Maharashtra Police Act, Congress leader Pawan Khera alleged that the order was aimed at disrupting the programme of Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi While police cited law-and-order concerns ahead of festivals. Deputy commissioner of police, special branch, Prashant Amrutkar, in the order cited the possibility of protests, demonstrations and bandhs by political parties and social organisations ahead of Eid-e-Milad, Narali Purnima and Rakshabandhan. The order prohibits carrying explosives, weapons, stones or sticks; raising loud slogans; displaying or burning effigies or photographs of leaders; and gatherings of five or more people for meetings or processions. Public meetings without prior permission from the police commissioner have also been prohibited.
Issued under Section 37(1), (2) and (3) of the Maharashtra Police Act, 1951, the order will remain in force until August 31. Violations will attract action under Section 135 of the Maharashtra Police Act, 1951.
