Prior police permission for rallies, prohibiting display of firearms: Pune police’s directives for smooth conduct of Lok Sabha elections

On Monday evening, Joint Commission of Police for Pune city Praveen Pawar issued two separate orders that will remain in effect till the completion of the entire nationwide election process till June 6.

The first order, issued under Section 36 of the Bombay Police Act, gives power to the Commissioner or the District Superintendent and other officers to give direction to the public.

The order mandates prior police permission for rallies and campaign marches to be held at the stipulated time and place. The order prohibits use of loudspeakers from 10pm to 6am and also their use while on the move. The moving loudspeakers are mandated to be used only when stopped. The loudspeakers should be used only by those who have permission and the norms regarding the decibel levels will have to be strictly adhered to. Use of loudspeakers near schools, colleges and hospitals is prohibited.

One convoy of vehicles used for the campaign should not have more than 10 vehicles and separation between two convoys should be at least 200 metres and 15 minutes. This provision maybe tweaked, considering the security requirements of convoys which carry office bearers of the Centre or state governments. The police station in-charge officer will have full authority to decide on which routes campaign marches and convoys will be allowed.

The second order has been issued under Section 144 of Code of Criminal Procedure, which empowers district magistrates and officials with magisterial powers to issue prohibitory orders in cases of possible nuisance or danger to law and order.

The order prohibits licenced firearm holders from carrying and displaying their weapons. The order will not be applicable to officers and personnel from police, security and armed forces and bank security personnel. Officials said a meeting of competent committee matters related to firearms will be held soon, after which individual notices will be issued to certain legal firearm holders to deposit their weapons with the police.