ASSAM: SECTION 144 CLAMPED IN HAILAKANDI DISTRICT

Section 144 has been promulgated to avert untoward incident that happened when AASU brought out a procession in Hailakandi against the citizenship amendment bill and some miscreants pelted stones injuring some activists. The incident happened on May14th. Apprehending breach of peace and tranquility, the Hailakandi district administration has clamped Section 144 CrPC with immediate effect.

The order issued by District Magistrate, Adil Khan, prohibits the assembly of five or more persons, taking out procession, rallies, public meetings and dharna in any public places without prior approval from the district administration.

The order prohibits demonstration, picketing and procession in front of offices, public institutions, public undertakings, commercial establishments or any other places of public importance.

It also prohibits the carrying of fire arms, weapons or explosive substance of any nature except by police and security personnel.

Inflammatory speeches, communal or anti-national, slogan shouting, writing and postering on walls, roads, public or private buildings, vehicles etc, use of loud speakers and bursting of crackers have been banned.

It also prohibits unauthorised construction and encroachment in forest areas and government land.

The order exempts government meetings and programmes.

The order says violation of the order will result in prosecution under various sections of the Indian Penal Code.

Meanwhile, Deputy Commissioner, Khan held a security meeting with Superintendent of Police and other senior officials of security agencies on Mondayto review the law and order situation in the district.

AASU president Dipankar Nath while condemning the attack on AASU members said categorically that such acts would not deter them from registering their protests against the citizenship amendment bill.