60-Day Weapons Ban Imposed in Chandigarh; District Magistrate Issues Emergency Order to Maintain Public Peace
The Voice of Canada-The Voice of Chandigarh News
In view of rising concerns over potential law and order disturbances, the District Magistrate of Chandigarh, Nishant Kumar Yadav, IAS, has issued an emergency order prohibiting the public from carrying firearms and other weapons across the Union Territory. The order will be effective from 00:00 hours on May 19, 2025, and shall remain in force until July 17, 2025.
The directive, issued under Section 163 of the Bhartiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, comes amid apprehensions of misuse of weapons by anti-social elements, which could result in public nuisance, panic, and threats to human safety and public tranquility.
Weapons Covered Under the Ban
The ban includes all kinds of firearms and lethal weapons such as:
- Lathies, spears, javelins, trishuls
- Swords, short swords, knives, daggers, knuckles
- Iron rods and similar items
According to the administration, the public display or carrying of such weapons could obstruct lawful activity, incite violence, and disturb the peace.
Exemptions Granted
The following categories are exempted from this restriction:
- Police, military, and paramilitary personnel, as well as other government servants, on official duty, provided they:
- Are in uniform
- Carry valid identity and authorization cards issued by the competent authority
- Licensed weapon holders or individuals who have obtained written permission from the District Magistrate, Chandigarh
Penalties for Violation
Any violation of this order will attract strict legal action under Section 223 of the Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, along with other applicable provisions of law.
The order, issued ex parte due to the emergent nature of the situation, applies to the general public within the territorial jurisdiction of Chandigarh.
Residents are urged to cooperate with authorities in maintaining peace and lawfulness during this period.
