Government Imposes Restrictions Section 144 Cr.PC In North Kashmir

The Polling (Phase-5th) for General Elections to Lok Sabha-2024 for 1- Baramulla Parliamentary Constituency is scheduled on 20th May 2024;

It is essential to conduct the Elections in free, fair and transparent manner and it is equally important to maintain public peace, order and tranquility as per the Law and Model Code of Conduct, as applicable with effect from 16-03-2024.

Under Section 126 of the Representation of Peoples Act 1951, no public meetings, processions, musical concert or rally or any kind of propagation of any election matter for campaigning or electioneering is to be allowed in the last 48 hours from 06:00 PM on 18-05-2024 to 06:00 PM on 20-05-2024;

I am satisfied that the circumstances do not permit to serve the notices individually upon the persons against whom this order is directed and therefore, under the powers vested in me under sub section (2) of Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code, 1973, hereby pass the order ex parte;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Ayushi Sudan, IAS, District Magistrate, Kupwara in exercise of the powers vested in me under the provisions of Section 144 of CrPC. 1973, do hereby order that From 06:00 PM of 18-05-2024 to 06:00 PM of 20-05- 2024 in the jurisdiction of District Kupwara “.

• There shall be complete ban on holding of public meetings.
• There shall be complete ban on gathering of 05 or more persons.
• There shall be complete ban on use of loudspeakers:
• Any other prohibitions as envisaged in Hon’ble ECI’s instructions and guidelines also to be observed during 48 hours silence period.

The undersigned further direct that this order shall not apply to the public servant on duty and to bonafide marriage, funeral processions or any other such functions.

Also this order shall not apply to the officers authorized for Election Duty by District Election Officer, Kupwara or the UT Government/Central Government including the Polling Officers/Magistrates/Police Officers/Government Staff.

Failing to comply with this order shall be liable for necessary action under Section 188 of Indian Penal Code, 1860 and other relevant provisions of law in force.

This order shall be applicable within the territorial jurisdiction of District Kupwara.

This shall remain in force till 20th May 2024.

Given under my hand and seal of this office, today on 18th of May, 2024.