Section 144 imposed in Noida for 1 month

Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) has been imposed in Uttar Pradesh’s Gautam Budh Nagar district for a month in a bid to maintain law and order during the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) board exams for class 11 and 12. The move comes in the wake of protests by farmers and several social outfits.

As per the order, the decision was made to keep a check on anti-social elements during the Holi festival and board exams. Referring to this order, Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police, Law and Order, Ashutosh Dwivedi said that this decision has been made to keep a check on anti-social elements. He also added that the decision has been made keeping in mind the fact that it is difficult to identify such elements beforehand, and that they cannot be offered a chance for individual hearing. The order also states that no protests or rallies will be allowed without permission from the authority concerned, and no loudspeakers can be used during this period. The circular specifies that people need to circulate messages or videos on social media with caution. Also, during this period, there will be a ban on celebratory firing and consuming liquor in public spaces. Further, police have received orders to immediately arrest those who are found participating in rallies or making public speeches that can potentially hurt the sentiment of a particular community.

The circular also mentions that those found violating the norms mentioned in the circular will be booked under Section 188 (disobedience to order duly promulgated by public servant) and may also have to pay a fine and face imprisonment.