The Sonitpur District Administration has imposed prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the BNSS, 2023, across the entire district, effective immediately. The order, issued by District Magistrate on April 5, comes in response to intelligence reports suggesting planned protests and demonstrations that could potentially disrupt the upcoming Panchayat Elections.
The prohibitory orders will remain in force for 60 days and impose several restrictions on public gatherings and activities. According to the official notification, the assembly of five or more persons in public places without prior written permission is strictly prohibited. Additionally, processions, rallies, and protests cannot be held without authorization from the District Administration.
The order also bans:
- Use of provocative slogans, placards, or speeches that may incite communal disharmony
- Carrying arms, sticks, or other offensive weapons in public places
- Use of loudspeakers or public address systems without valid permission
- Spreading misinformation or inciteful messages on social media
These restrictions come at a sensitive time as the Model Code of Conduct is currently in force throughout the district for the Panchayat Election 2025.
The District Magistrate has clarified that the order will not apply to law enforcement and government officials on duty, emergency services, or religious and cultural ceremonies including Bihu Programme, provided the latter are conducted within premises with prior permission.
Violators of the order will face prosecution under Section 223 of the BNSS, 2023, and other applicable laws. The district administration emphasized that the order was issued ex parte, considering the urgent need to ensure peace and normalcy during the election period.
Officials reiterated that the measures are preventive in nature and aim to ensure the peaceful and fair conduct of the Panchayat elections. Residents of Sonitpur are urged to cooperate with the authorities and obtain proper permission for any public events or gatherings during this time.
The District Administration has established a control room for citizens to report any violations or seek clarifications regarding the order. For permissions or clarifications, individuals can reach out to the office of the District Magistrate, Sonitpur.
