Curfew in Hyderabad, Secunderabad? Police bans gathering of five or more people, violators would be prosecuted

The Hyderabad City Police has issued an order prohibiting public gatherings, protests, and rallies across Hyderabad for a month, starting October 27. This measure aims to safeguard public order amid concerns that various groups may attempt to disrupt city peace. Hyderabad City Police Commissioner CV Anand issued the directive under Section 163 of Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita 2023, previously known as Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code.

According to the order, all gatherings of five or more people, processions, public meetings, and displays of symbols or messages that could incite public unrest are strictly prohibited across Hyderabad and Secunderabad. Citing credible information received by the police, Commissioner Anand’s order stated, “Reliable information has been placed before me that several organizations and parties are trying to create disturbances affecting public peace and order in Hyderabad City, by resorting to dharnas and protests.”



The directive applies across all public spaces in Hyderabad, where large gatherings, rallies, and speeches that might lead to disturbances are restricted. Any gestures, flags, placards, or electronic messages that could threaten peace and security are also banned under this regulation.

The Hyderabad police have designated Indira Park Dharna Chowk as the only area where peaceful protests may occur during this month. Outside of this location, gatherings and protests will be restricted. As Commissioner CV Anand stated, “With a view to maintain public order, peace, and tranquillity in Hyderabad City, I, CV Anand, IPS., Commissioner of Police, Hyderabad City, in the exercise of the powers vested in me under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita 2023...prohibit every kind of gathering of five or more persons, processions, dharnas, rallies, or public meetings...likely to cause disturbance to public peace and order in the limits of Hyderabad and Secunderabad.”

In addition to restricting protest locations, the police warned the public that violations of this directive, particularly around sensitive areas such as the Secretariat, will result in prosecution. The order emphasized, “The public is hereby informed that any person violating the above orders, especially around the Secretariat and other sensitive places, shall be liable for prosecution under appropriate penal provisions.”

The issuance of this order aligns with increased efforts by Hyderabad’s law enforcement to maintain order during a period of heightened social and political activity. The Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita 2023, under which the directive is issued, replaced Section 144, expanding authorities’ ability to regulate public gatherings to prevent unrest.