Tarun Karthick
Port Blair, 11 July 2024
In light of potential unrest following the death of Mrs. V. Vimala on July 6, 2024, the District Magistrate of South Andaman has imposed a prohibition on gatherings in several key areas to maintain public order and safety. The order, issued by District Magistrate Arjun Sharma, IAS, restricts the assembly of five or more people around Dairy Farm Junction, Junglighat Jetty area, and VSI Airport area, effective immediately.
The decision comes after concerns were raised about the likelihood of anti-social elements gathering in these locations to protest the death of Mrs. V. Vimala. The District Magistrate highlighted that such unlawful gatherings could lead to a breach of peace, disturbance of public tranquility, and pose significant risks to human life, safety, and public property.
The prohibition is enforced under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS)-2023, with any violations subject to action under Section 208 of the same act. This order does not apply to Executive Magistrates, police personnel, and other public servants on duty.
This ex-parte order, directed at the general public, is set to remain in effect until further notice. Enforcement of the order will be carried out by the Sub Divisional Magistrate, Superintendent of Police, and Executive Magistrate of South Andaman. The order will be promulgated through postings on notice boards at the District Magistrate’s office, the District Court in Port Blair, and through local newspapers.