Citing traffic congestion, top cop bans protests at key spots near CM house

Bhopal: Citing the need to ease traffic congestion and to ensure uninterrupted emergency services, the Bhopal Police Commissioner has imposed a ban on demonstrations, protests, strikes, and effigy burning at some of the city's busiest intersections located near the CM House.Police Commissioner Sanjay Kumar on Wednesday issued an order under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, declaring Polytechnic Square, Akashvani Square, and Kilol Park Square, along with the stretches connecting them, as restricted zones. The order will remain in force for the next two months in the city.Recently, on April 1, members of various right-wing organisations staged a large protest at Polytechnic Square, demanding "bulldozer action" and the strictest legal action against those accused in the murder of restaurant owner Vijay Mewada in Ashoka Garden. Following that, students and youth groups have held two more protests at the same spot, the latest on Wednesday, seeking removal of a liquor shop operating near the square. Some other organisations had also held protest at the square recently.According to the order, authorities have frequently received requests from various organisations, political parties, community groups, and delegations seeking permission to hold protests and demonstrations at Polytechnic Square. However, the intersection serves as a crucial route connecting key locations such as the airport, Hamidia Hospital, and Gandhi Medical College, and does not have a viable alternative route.Police said that any protest activity at these locations leads to severe traffic disruption, causing inconvenience to commuters and posing risks to emergency services such as ambulances and fire brigades. The route is also vital for the movement of VVIPs and other essential services. Citing the concerns, the commissioner said that allowing such gatherings at these locations could hamper traffic flow and potentially endanger lives due to delays in emergency response.The order, issued under section 163(1) of BNSS, has been enforced as a one-sided directive under subsection (2). However, individuals or organisations aggrieved by the order may seek relaxation by approaching the competent authority. Police have warned that strict action will be taken against those violating the restrictions, stressing that the decision has been taken to maintain law and order and ensure smooth traffic movement in the city.
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