Admin imposes restrictions in parts of J-K's Doda, bans unauthorised assemblies for two months

Jammu, The administration on Sunday imposed a ban on unauthorised assemblies and protests in parts of Jammu and Kashmir's Doda town for a period of two months under Section 163 of the BNSS, citing apprehensions of public disturbance and threat to peace.

The step has been taken in view of the expectations of large gatherings of people in public events of recently released AAP MLA Mehraj Malik in his native Doda district.

According to an order issued by District Magistrate Krishan Lal, the administration observed that some people were allegedly planning demonstrations and trying to mobilise gatherings, which could lead to untoward incidents and disturb public order.


"In exercise of powers vested in me I hereby order a complete ban over any unauthorised gathering of 5 or more than 5 persons and organising protests or Dharnas in the public places - Clock tower chowk, Dessa road upto Akramabad, sports stadium, within the radius of 100 meters from the sports stadium and from clock tower up to old Bus Stand except for the events for which the permission has been already granted," Lal said in the order.

The administration said such gatherings could cause obstruction and inconvenience to commuters, passengers and pedestrians, besides posing a threat to public safety.

However, events for which prior permission has already been granted will remain exempted, it said. Violators will be booked under Section 223 of the BNSS, the order said.