Flying drones, other aerial devices banned for 2 weeks in Delhi ahead of Independence Day

The latest order restricts flying aerial devices such as paragliders, para-motors, hang-gliders, unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), microlight aircraft, hot air balloons, small-sized powered aircraft, quadcopters, and remotely piloted aircraft under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS).

“It has been reported that certain criminal, anti-social elements or terrorists inimical to India may pose a threat to the safety of the general public, dignitaries and vital installations by the use of sub- conventional aerial platforms over the jurisdiction of the NCT of Delhi on the occasion of Independence Day celebrations- 2025 and doing so shall be punishable under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023,” the order stated.

The order has been forwarded to all Deputy Commissioners of police, Additional DCPs, tehsil offices, all police stations and offices of the New Delhi Municipal Council, Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), Public Works Department (PWD), Delhi Development Authority (DDA), and Delhi Cantonment Board.

Friday’s meeting lasted nearly two hours and included District Deputy Commissioners, Range Joint Commissioners, and Special Commissioners.

An officer said the meeting focused on stepping up surveillance measures in sensitive areas, increased patrolling and vigilance. Senior officers have been asked to personally supervise security drills and verify the deployment of quick reaction teams, bomb disposal squads, and sniffer dog units.