Strict prohibitory measures have been imposed across Sonitpur District following the final publication of the electoral roll for the upcoming Assam Legislative Assembly Election, 2026.
District Commissioner of Sonitpur, Shri Ananda Kumar Das, ACS, issued the order on 9 February under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023. The order came into immediate effect and was released ahead of the publication of the electoral roll on 10 February, with the aim of maintaining public peace and ensuring a free and fair election process.
The directive prohibits several activities deemed potentially disruptive to public order. The following acts are strictly banned under the order:
- Shouting of slogans, demonstrations, processions, or any act that may disturb public peace and public order.
- Carrying of arms, ammunition, explosives, sticks, stones, or any lethal or offensive weapons.
- Spreading of rumours, misinformation, false statements, or objectionable content, particularly relating to the publication of the electoral roll, through any means including social media, print, or electronic platforms.
- Any act intended to create tension, fear, disharmony, or enmity among communities, groups, or individuals.
- Unauthorised entry into any office or premises where Electoral Rolls are kept, revised, or published.
- Police forces have been placed on high alert and directed to maintain strict vigil, especially in sensitive and vulnerable areas of the district, to ensure effective enforcement of this order.
The District Magistrate emphasised that the ex-parte order was issued considering the gravity of the situation and will remain in operation until the completion of the election process. All residents have been urged to comply with the directions and extend full cooperation to the administration.
The Election Commission of India has issued comprehensive instructions to district authorities to ensure peaceful conduct of the state assembly elections.
