District Magistrate issues ban orders

Tribune News Service

Amritsar, January 12

In view of the coming Assembly and the Lok Sabha poll for Amritsar slated for February 4, the district administration today banned carrying of firearms and sharp-edged weapons till March 12.

Imposing Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code while using his magisterial powers, the Deputy Commissioner, Dr Basant Garg, said the decision was taken to ensure free and fair elections in the holy city. He said it was necessary to maintain peace and law and order in the state. He said carrying any kind of firearms, explosive material, flammable material and sharp-edged weapons, including ‘datars’ etc, were strictly prohibited during the period. Those found violating the orders would be booked and stern action would be taken against them.

Similarly, he also imposed Section 144 restricting holding of any congregation, protest rallies and dharnas in the district till March 7. According to the orders, he claimed that they had specific information that certain political parties were planning to carry out protest marches, rallies and dharnas, which could lead to provocation of public sentiments and thereby creating a law and order situation.

Therefore, there would be a complete ban on the congregation of five or more persons for meetings or dharnas, etc. The orders would remain in force till March 7, he added.