Khliehriat: The administration in Meghalaya has stepped up security measures within the East Jaintia Hills district to maintain public order. The District Magistrate has invoked restrictions under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, targeting the premises and immediate boundaries of the Deputy Commissioner's Office located in Khliehriat. This directive has come into force with immediate effect following apprehensions of potential public unrest and protests.
Ban on Public Gatherings and Demonstrations
Under the freshly issued administrative order, assemblies of five or more individuals are strictly prohibited in and around the designated office perimeter. The public cannot participate in or organise protests, demonstrations, sit-ins, public meetings, or similar congregations that pose a threat to public peace, tranquility, and law and order. Authorities noted that unauthorized gatherings risk stalling the daily administrative operations of the Deputy Commissioner's Office and disrupting the smooth flow of local traffic and pedestrians.
Restrictions on Weapons and Provocative Acts
Prioritizing safety, the District Magistrate has barred individuals from carrying, possessing, or displaying weapons and hazardous items within the restricted zone. This ban encompasses sticks, lathis, daos, firearms, ammunition, explosives, and flammable substances. Additionally, authorities have outlawed slogans, speeches, provocative acts, or behavior intended to intimidate or incite violence and confrontation among citizens.
Protection of Essential Services and Public Property
The restrictions explicitly safeguard the movement of pedestrians, transport, medical help, emergency personnel, government officials, and essential services from being obstructed within the area. Furthermore, any actions resulting in the destruction or damage of private or public assets, along with abetting such behavior, are strictly forbidden under the order.
Exemptions to these strict rules apply to on-duty magistrates, police and security forces, medical and emergency personnel, authorized government workers, and individuals explicitly excused by the competent authority for official business.
Legal Consequences for Violators
The imposed restrictions will remain active until further notice. Anyone found flouting these directives will face prosecution and legal action under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, along with other applicable legal provisions.
