Delhi News: Restrictions Under Section 163 Of BNS In Key Areas For Six Days

The Delhi Police has imposed Section 163 restrictions in several areas due to potential disturbances related to the Waqf Board Amendment Bill, Shahi Eidgah tensions, and upcoming elections.

The Delhi Police has implemented Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) across multiple locations in the capital city for the next six days, citing concerns over potential disruptions. The restrictions, which took effect on September 30, will remain in place until October 5. Areas affected include New Delhi, Central Delhi, North Delhi, and all areas bordering the city.

During this period, protests and public gatherings are prohibited, and carrying weapons of any kind is strictly forbidden, according to an order issued by the Delhi Police Commissioner.

"In view of the above, I, Sanjay Arora, Commissioner of Police, Delhi, in exercise of the powers conferred to me by Section 163 of the Bhartiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 (BNSS), as per the Government of India's Ministry of Law and Justice (Legislative Department), New Delhi's notification no 2654 dated 16.07.2024, hereby issue this written order for the districts of New Delhi, North, and Central, as well as all police stations with jurisdiction over Delhi's state borders, for a period of six days, from 30/09/2024 to 5/10/2024. The order prohibits: (i) the assembly of five or more unauthorized persons; (ii) carrying firearms, banners, placards, lathis, spears, swords, sticks, brickbats, etc.; (iii) sit-ins or dharnas in any public area, with violations punishable under Section 223 of the Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023," the Commissioner’s office stated, as quoted by India TV.

Section 163 In Delhi: Intelligence Inputs Suggest Possible Disturbances

The decision comes in response to intelligence inputs suggesting possible disturbances due to several ongoing issues. Key among these are the Waqf Board Amendment Bill, tensions surrounding the Shahi Eidgah, and elections in two states. Authorities fear these matters could spark unrest, prompting the preventive measures.

According to the Delhi Police notice, various organisations have planned protests across the city in the first week of October. The heightened security measures also coincide with the upcoming results of Delhi University's student elections and the observance of Gandhi Jayanti on October 2, which will see increased VVIP movement in New Delhi and Central Delhi.

Adding to the sensitive atmosphere, Haryana is scheduled to hold its state assembly elections on October 5, further justifying the enforcement of Section 163.