The announcement, made by the Additional Commissioner of Police (ACP) of Prayagraj on Friday, highlights the need to prevent disturbances and ensure the peaceful conduct of major festivals, religious observances, and exams.
The prohibition comes under Section-163 of the Indian Civil Security Code, 2023 (Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023).
Key events during the period
The prohibitory order is in response to a busy calendar of events in the coming weeks, including the Mahakumbh Mela and multiple religious festivals such as Republic Day, Mauni Amavasya, Basant Panchami, Sant Ravidas Jayanti, Maghi Purnima, Valentine’s Day, Shab-e-Barat, and Mahashivratri.
The ACP also mentioned that various competitive exams will take place during this period. With the potential for anti-social elements to disrupt law and order, officials have taken preemptive measures to ensure that the events are held safely and peacefully.
“In view of the communal sensitivity of the district, and based on reliable information, I am convinced that there is a possibility of anti-social elements causing disruption in the law and order of the district,” the ACP stated in the official communication.
The aim is to prevent any form of disturbance during these significant events.
Details of the prohibitory orders
The prohibitory orders include a range of restrictions meant to prevent disturbances and ensure the safety of the public. Key provisions include:
Public Gatherings and Protests: No individual or group is permitted to organise events, protests, demonstrations, or processions without prior approval from the competent authority. Public gatherings and protests are strictly prohibited outside the designated protest site in Civil Lines.
Drone Usage: The use of drones for traditional religious events is prohibited across the Prayagraj Commissionerate, unless authorised for official police or administrative purposes.
Weapons and Harmful Items: Carrying lethal weapons, including lathis, sticks, and firearms, is banned within the district, except for law enforcement personnel. Individuals are also prohibited from entering government and non-government offices with weapons.
Provocative Speech and Media: No individual is allowed to deliver speeches or publish materials that could incite communal tension or hurt religious sentiments. The spread of misleading or provocative content through social media or other channels is also prohibited.
Disruptions to Public and Commercial Life: Activities that hinder the functioning of essential services, such as forcibly closing businesses, obstructing traffic, or disrupting transport services, are strictly prohibited.
Protection of Property: Damaging public or private property in any manner is forbidden, along with any attempts to disrupt the distribution of essential commodities.
The ACP emphasised that these measures were necessary to maintain peace and public order during a time when the district is hosting large crowds and multiple events of both religious and civic significance.
Important dates for Mahakumbh Mela 2025
The Mahakumbh Mela, which began on January 13, 2025, will continue until February 26, 2025. The following key dates are expected to see large gatherings for the Shahi Snan (royal bathing rituals):
- January 29 (Mauni Amavasya – Second Shahi Snan)
- February 3 (Basant Panchami – Third Shahi Snan)
- February 12 (Maghi Purnima)
- February 26 (Maha Shivaratri)
With these crucial events ahead, the authorities remain vigilant to ensure the safety and security of all participants and visitors to Prayagraj.
For any inquiries or concerns, the public is advised to stay updated through official channels and follow the instructions outlined in the prohibitory orders.
(With inputs from ANI)
