Pune Police Enforces Strict Prohibitory Measures Ahead of Crucial Local Elections
In a decisive move to ensure peaceful polling, the Special Branch of the Pune City Police has issued a comprehensive prohibitory order that will remain effective for 14 days, spanning from February 3 to February 16. This stringent directive comes in anticipation of the upcoming Zilla Parishad and Panchayat Samiti elections, which have been rescheduled to February 7 following recent developments.
Key Provisions of the Prohibitory Order
The notification, formally issued by Deputy Commissioner of Police (Special Branch) Dr Sandeep Bhajibhakre on Sunday, outlines several critical restrictions aimed at maintaining law and order within Pune city's jurisdiction. Notably, the order explicitly prohibits the posting of social media reels featuring criminals, a measure specifically designed to prevent the spread of intimidating content and threats among the public during the sensitive election period.
Additional banned activities under this order include:
- Possession of flammable and explosive substances, as well as weapons such as guns, swords, and sticks.
- Burning of effigies or images of political leaders.
- Engaging in any actions, speeches, or sloganeering that could potentially disrupt public order.
- Organizing processions involving five or more individuals without obtaining prior permission from the Pune City Police Commissioner's office.
Election Schedule Adjustments and Legal Implications
The State Election Commission has revised the election timeline in response to a three-day state mourning declared after the tragic death of Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar in a plane crash at Baramati on January 28. Consequently, polling for the remaining phases across 12 zilla parishads and 125 panchayat samitis in Maharashtra, originally set for February 5, will now occur on February 7. The vote counting has been correspondingly postponed from February 7 to February 9.
Individuals found violating any provisions of this prohibitory order face prosecution under the Maharashtra Police Act, underscoring the seriousness with which authorities are approaching election security. This proactive stance by the Pune Police highlights the growing challenges of digital misinformation and intimidation in the electoral process, setting a precedent for how law enforcement can adapt to modern threats while upholding democratic integrity.
