Prohibitory orders clamped at statue site for next 30 days

Margao: Anticipating a major law and order flare-up over the proposed dismantling of the statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji at Headland Sada, the Mormugao sub-divisional magistrate (SDM) Prataprao Gaunkar on Thursday clamped prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023.

The order effectively bans the assembly of five or more persons and all forms of protests within a 50-m radius of the site for the next 30 days.

The move follows a directive from the Bombay high court, which instructed authorities to maintain peace and ensure the Mormugao Port Authority (MPA) can execute the court’s directions regarding the property at Headland Sada junction.

The administration’s decision was prompted by a “strong apprehension” of unrest. The order states that reports from the sub-divisional police officer, Vasco, suggested that a crowd of 1,000 to 1,500 people from various parts of Goa, led by certain individuals, was planning to converge at the site to oppose the dismantling.

All forms of processions, rallies, dharnas and demonstrations are strictly prohibited within the notified zone as per the order. The SDM has also barred the delivery of provocative speeches or any acts likely to disturb public tranquillity.

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