Lucknow Enforces Section 144 for Upcoming Festivals and Programs
In anticipation of upcoming festivals and the Pran Pratistha program of Ramlala in Ayodhya, Section 144 has been implemented in Lucknow, restricting public gatherings and drone activities.
LUCKNOW – Section 144 has been imposed in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, as a precautionary measure for the upcoming festivals, including the significant Pran Pratistha program of Ramlala in Ayodhya.
This order, issued by Lucknow’s Joint Commissioner of Police (Law and Order) Upendra Kumar Aggarwal, restricts any form of protest or demonstration at places other than the designated Ecogarden, unless permitted.
Drone photography and shooting are prohibited within a one-kilometer radius of government offices and the Vidhan Bhavan, and elsewhere without police authorization.
The decision comes in light of several key events including the consecration of the Ram temple on January 22, Hajar Ali’s birth anniversary on January 25, Republic Day on January 26, Basant Panchami on February 14, Sant Ravidas Jayanti on February 24, Shabe Baraat on February 26, and Mahashivratri on March 8.
The imposition of Section 144 also considers potential disruptions in view of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections 2024 and the likelihood of protests by political party workers, Indian farmer organizations, and various other groups.
Under this order, gatherings of five or more people, processions, or forming groups in public places without police permission are prohibited.
Exceptions may be made for government-permitted programs.
Regulations on loudspeaker usage at religious places have also been specified, with defined sound intensity limits and time restrictions.
Furthermore, storage of materials that could be used for violent activities, such as bricks, stones, and inflammable substances, is prohibited in open places and on rooftops.
The order also bans the sale and use of Chinese Manjha and the flying of kites with dangerous strings in Lucknow, citing public safety and property damage concerns.
These measures are aimed at maintaining public order and safety during the busy festive period and in the face of potential political unrest.
