SHILLONG : The East Jaintia Hills district administration has imposed restrictions on protests, sit-ins and other gatherings within the premises and boundary of the Deputy Commissioner’s Office at Khliehriat.
The order was issued on August 24 by District Magistrate Manish Kumar, IAS, under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023.
According to the order, the administration received information through social media, news reports and other sources about the possibility of the Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) organising a sit-in demonstration, protest or other public gathering at or around the Deputy Commissioner’s Office.
The administration said it apprehended that such a gathering could obstruct movement, disrupt the functioning of the government office and affect public peace and tranquillity.
Under the order, an assembly of five or more persons for a protest, demonstration, sit-in, dharna or public meeting likely to disturb public order is prohibited within the specified area.
The order also prohibits carrying or displaying sticks, lathis, daos, firearms, ammunition, explosives or other objects capable of causing injury or damage.
Activities, slogans or speeches considered likely to provoke violence or confrontation have also been prohibited. Blocking pedestrians, vehicles, emergency services, government officials or essential services is similarly barred.
The restrictions do not apply to magistrates, police, security personnel, emergency workers and other authorised officials carrying out their duties.
The order further states that anyone violating or disobeying the restrictions may face legal action under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and other applicable laws.
The District Magistrate said the order was issued ex parte due to the urgency of the situation and would remain in force until further orders
