Ranchi: The Ranchi administration has imposed a ban on holding protests, demonstrations, or rallies without prior permission in key areas of the city. This restriction, enforced under Section 163 of the Criminal Procedure Code, came into effect on May 6 and will remain in force for 60 days, until July 4 or until further orders are issued.
The order prohibits any unauthorized public gatherings or processions in sensitive zones. However, exemptions have been made for government employees performing official duties, court-related work, religious activities, and funeral ceremonies.
Authorities stated that several organizations were bypassing the designated protest site at Zakir Hussain Park and instead assembling near high-security areas such as the Chief Minister’s residence, Raj Bhavan, and other critical government buildings. This led to disruptions in official work, traffic congestion, and posed a potential threat to law and order.
As a result, Section 163 has been enforced in specific locations. These include a 100-meter radius around the Chief Minister’s residence, the same distance around Raj Bhavan (excluding Zakir Hussain Park), the Jharkhand High Court, and Project Bhawan and Nepal House. It also covers a 500-meter radius around the new Jharkhand State Assembly and a 200-meter radius around the HEC Project Bhawan located in Dhurwa.
Within these areas, organizing public meetings, processions, or protests without administrative approval is strictly prohibited. The order also bans the carrying of weapons, including guns, sticks, and traditional arms like bows and arrows. Additionally, the use of loudspeakers or any sound-amplifying devices without permission is not allowed.
The administration has stated that these measures have been taken to maintain public order, ensure the smooth functioning of government offices, and prevent any potential law and order issues.