Ahmedabad Police Issues Prohibitory Orders Ahead of Elections

The Ahmedabad Police has issued prohibitory orders, effective from April 17 to May 7, prohibiting the hoisting of black flags or cloth, the display of inflammatory banners and placards, and the raising of inflammatory slogans during campaign rallies, meetings, or processions in the run-up to the Lok Sabha elections.

Ahmedabad Police Aim for Peaceful Elections:

The order, signed by Police Commissioner G S Malik and made public on Thursday, aims to ensure that the Lok Sabha election is conducted peacefully and harmoniously. 

It will allow citizens to exercise their franchise in a conducive and fear-free environment while maintaining peace and security in Ahmedabad.

Legal Basis and Applicability:

Issued under CrPC Section 144, the order states that unfurling black cloth, raising provocative slogans, displaying inflammatory placards or banners, or making aggressive speeches may lead to a breach of public peace or rioting. It is applicable within the jurisdiction of the Ahmedabad City Commission.

General Preventive Measure by Ahmedabad Police:

Commissioner Malik emphasized that the order is a general preventive measure to ensure free and fair elections without violence, per the Election Commission of India’s instructions. 

It is not linked to any specific incident or party affiliation but prioritizes maintaining law and order during the electoral process.

Context and Justification:

While no specific incidents prompted the order, Commissioner Malik suggested that recent events, such as protests by the Kshatriya community and Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s visit to Gujarat, influenced the decision to maintain law and order in Ahmedabad city.

The order’s purpose is to prevent disturbances during election-related activities, irrespective of political affiliations, ensuring the safety and security of all participants.

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