The District Magistrate of Sonitpur, Deba Kumar Mishra, has issued prohibitory orders under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code to ensure smooth and peaceful counting of votes for the Parliamentary Election 2024 on June 4th. The orders, which will remain in force until 8 AM on June 5th, have been issued in view of the expected gathering of large numbers of supporters from various political parties at the counting centers. Anticipating potential traffic congestion, tension during victory processions, and the risk of extremist elements trying to disturb the peace, the District Magistrate has imposed certain restrictions.
As per the orders, gathering of people and parking of vehicles within a 100-meter radius of the counting centers at Darrang College in Tezpur is prohibited. Vehicles will also not be allowed to park on the route from Dhanua Nagar Petrol Pump to Tezpur Police Station via Madhab Dham-Civil Hospital Chariali. Only those with valid identity cards issued by the Election Commission of India or the designated I-Card Cell will be permitted entry into the counting centers. Carrying sharp weapons, sticks, or any other objects that could be used as weapons in public gatherings or victory processions is strictly prohibited.
Setting up temporary food stalls or shops within 100 meters of the counting centers has also been banned. Bursting or throwing firecrackers, inflammable materials on streets, public properties, vehicles, or pedestrians is not allowed. Public rallies, processions without permission, demonstrations, dharnas, or slogan shouting causing obstruction to public roads, highways, footpaths, and traffic movement are restricted under these orders. The prohibitions on vehicle parking will not apply to security forces or public servants engaged in election duty, and permanent business establishments will not be affected.
Violation of these orders is punishable under Section 188 of the Indian Penal Code. The District Magistrate has urged the public to cooperate and maintain peace during the counting process.
