The Police Commissioner of Guwahati, the capital city of Assam, has issued prohibitory orders under Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC). The order comes in response to reports indicating potential disruptions to the normal functioning of offices, public movement, and traffic by certain individuals, groups, organizations, and associations within the jurisdiction.
The order states that the police have received information about plans for agitations, demonstrations, and slogan shouting by these groups, which could lead to a breach of peace, disturbance of public order, and disruption of daily activities in the greater Guwahati area. To maintain peace and ensure the smooth movement of the public, traffic, and regular activities of residents and offices, the Guwahati Police Commissionerate has imposed Section 144 of the CrPC, effective from May 20, 2023, until further notice.
Under the orders of Section 144, assembling in groups of more than five people, organizing processions, and shouting slogans are prohibited in all areas covered by the three Police Districts of the Guwahati Police Commissionerate.
The order also states that any person who objects to this decision can approach the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Administration), Guwahati, to file a written objection for the cancellation or modification of the order.
This step has been taken as a precautionary measure to ensure the maintenance of public order and the peaceful functioning of the city.