Section 144 imposed in Gautam Budh Nagar, Ghaziabad

Gautam Budh Nagar and Ghaziabad have imposed Section 144 from Monday, prohibiting assembly of four or more people at one place for the next two months. The reason, say officials is because of the impending festival and exam season. The decision comes a day after the recent Bulandshahr violence incident leading to the death of inspector Subodh Singh.

"The Gautam Budh Nagar district administration has imposed prohibitory orders in the district under section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC). With vote counting and election results scheduled for Saturday, followed by a number of festivals and the upcoming board exams, the orders will be in place for the next two months to prevent any untoward incidents. Section 144 prohibits assembly of five or more persons at one place," said a senior government official.

All police officials and sub divisional magistrates (SDMs) have been instructed to hold meetings with local communities and take them into confidence. Police and district administration officials have been holding meetings with local communities and religious groups to prevent any incidents arising out of disputes over election results or religious festivals.

"The administration is preparing itself to handle any unforeseen circumstances arising from election results, and to maintain harmony during festivals." the official added.

THE BAN

Through the orders, the district administration has put a curb on general assembly of public, processions, use of weapons that may cause hurt, demeaning religious symbols.