Sec 144 imposed in GB Nagar ahead of festivities

Noida: Gautam Budh Nagar police have imposed prohibitory orders under section 144 of the CrPC from February 4 to 28, restricting public gatherings

Noida: Gautam Budh Nagar police have imposed prohibitory orders under section 144 of the CrPC from February 4 to 28, restricting public gatherings. Police said the decision was taken in view of upcoming festivals and to make sure there is no surge in Covid-19 cases. Earlier, section 144 had been imposed in the district from January 7 to 31, and was lifted just for three days before it was enforced again.

Noida, India- February 05, 2023: Noida police has imposed section 144 of CrPC in the district from February 4 to 28 in view of the upcoming festivals and expected increase in Covid cases. Officials instructed that during the period drones are not allowed to fly within a kilometre of government offices and loudspeakers or worship in public places will be disallowed, in Noida, India, on Sunday, February 05, 2023. (Photo by Sunil Ghosh / Hindustan Times) To go with Snehil’s story

Police said that drones will not be allowed to fly within a one-kilometre radius of government offices nor will they be allowed to take photos and videos. Also, loudspeakers or worship in public places will also be disallowed.

The order mentions that in the entire month, Sant Ravidas Jayanti and Mohammad Hazrat Ali’s birth anniversary will be observed on February 5, along with Valentine’s Day on February 14 and Mahashivratri on February 18. Police said that various examinations are also scheduled in the month.

“Due to these festivals, there is a possibility of a law-and-order situation by religious, political or other groups. As a preventive measure and to maintain peace in the district, Section 144 is being imposed. For any kind of gathering of over five people at a public place, permission needs to be taken from the police,” said a spokesperson from the Gautam Budh Nagar police department.

Use of loudspeakers are completely banned from 10pm to 6am, while during the day, they can only be used within permissible noise levels. Additionally, offering prayers or carrying out processions is completely banned at public places or roads. Putting up religious posters, banners, flags or any other material on the walls or premises of religious places will also not be allowed. People have also been asked to not leave their animals such as pigs and dogs around religious places. Carrying any kind of sharp, inflammable or any other dangerous objects is also restricted, police said.

The guidelines also state that people will have to follow Covid-19 protocol and ensure they wear masks at all public places or religious events. All restaurants, hotels and food joints have also been instructed to follow Covid-19 appropriate behaviour as per their capacity, police added.