Shimla makes verification mandatory for migrant labourers

The Shimla district administration has made it compulsory for all migrant labourers to undergo identification and verification at their local police station. District Magistrate Anupam Kashyap issued the order as an emergency measure under the Indian Civil Security Code, 2023.

As per the directive, no employer, contractor, or trader in Shimla can hire migrant labourers for non-formal jobs or contract work unless the workers submit their personal details and a passport-sized photograph to the Station House Officer (SHO) of the relevant police station. Strict action will be taken against violators under Section 223 of the Indian Penal Code, 2023.

Additionally, any individual visiting Shimla district is barred from engaging in self-employment, informal trade, or job-seeking without prior notification to the concerned police station. Both violators and those aiding them will be penalised.

In a separate order issued under Section 6 of the Punjab State Security Act, 1953, Kashyap imposed a complete ban on public gatherings, rallies, processions, slogan-shouting, and carrying weapons or items that can be misused for criminal purposes. This restriction excludes police, paramilitary, and army personnel on duty.

Both orders come into immediate effect and will remain valid for two months. Kashyap stated that these measures were necessary to ensure public safety and maintain law and order in the region.