In a move aimed at maintaining public order in the state capital, the Shimla district administration has imposed a ban on dharnas, demonstrations, rallies, processions and public meetings at 10 identified locations across the city.
The orders have been issued by Shimla District Magistrate Anupam Kashyap under Section 6 of the Punjab State Security Act, 1953.
According to the notification, the restrictions will apply from Chhota Shimla to The Ridge and Kennedy House; within a 150-metre stretch from Rendezvous Restaurant to Rivoli Cinema; from Scandal Point to Kali Bari Temple; from Chhota Shimla Gurdwara to the link road connecting the Chhota Shimla-Kasumpti route; from Chhota Shimla Chowk to Lok Bhawan and Oak Over;
From Chhota Shimla Gurdwara to Satti Stairs and the pedestrian pathway leading towards Kasumpti Road; from Cart Road to Majitha House Link Road; from the AG Office to Cart Road; from the CPWD Office to Chaura Maidan; and within a 50-metre stretch from the police booth above the Deputy Commissioner’s Office towards Lower Bazaar.
The administration has prohibited the holding of public meetings, taking out rallies and processions, staging demonstrations, raising slogans, playing bands, and carrying objects that could be used as weapons with criminal intent in these areas.
The order clarifies that the restrictions will not apply to police personnel, paramilitary forces and military personnel performing official duties. It also states that prior permission from the competent authority will be mandatory for organising any event at these restricted locations.
District Magistrate Anupam Kashyap said the orders have been enforced with immediate effect in view of the need to maintain public order and law and order in the city.
The restrictions will remain effective until July 31, 2026.
