The district administration of Baramulla in north Kashmir has imposed a total prohibition on the flying of drones or unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) by the general public. This decisive order, which will remain in force until October 31, comes in response to specific intelligence inputs received from the Indian Army.
Army Intelligence Triggers Preemptive Action
The ban was enacted after the Army's infantry division alerted local authorities about a serious security concern. In a communication dated September 24, the Army expressed apprehension about the possible smuggling of drones into the Kashmir Valley. The intelligence suggested these devices could be used against security personnel and critical installations, especially during the upcoming festive season.
Baramulla's Deputy Commissioner, Minga Sherpa (IAS), formally issued the prohibition order. The directive was formulated after the DC consulted with the Senior Superintendents of Police (SSPs) of both Baramulla and Sopore districts. The police officials echoed the Army's concerns and recommended imposing restrictions to suspend all non-essential drone operations as a crucial precautionary step.
Scope of the Ban and Key Exemptions
The order, invoked under BNSS Section 163 pertaining to threats to public safety, is comprehensive. It prohibits drone flying by any individual, event host, or private organisation within the Baramulla district. The administration has made it clear that unauthorized drone activity will not be tolerated.
However, the ban is not absolute. A critical exemption has been carved out for official operations. Drone flights conducted by security forces, Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) units, or government departments for official duties are permitted. But even these exempted entities must follow a strict protocol: they are required to share prior information about their drone operations with the district administration, the local police, and the Army's 19 Infantry Division.
A Pattern of Heightened Vigilance
This move by the Baramulla administration is part of a broader pattern of increased vigilance regarding drone usage in Jammu and Kashmir. Just last month, the Jammu and Kashmir Police issued a similar advisory for the south Kashmir region. That advisory mandated that individuals, media personnel, institutions, and event organisers must seek advance permission before operating any drones.
The police had warned that any drone flying without proper authorisation would invite strict legal action. The consequences could include seizure of the drone equipment and prosecution under relevant laws. The consecutive actions in south and now north Kashmir underscore the security establishment's focused efforts to mitigate the emerging threat posed by rogue drones in the region.
