The Patna district administration has implemented stringent security measures around the Bihar legislative assembly building as the winter session approaches. Special restrictions will remain in effect from December 1 to December 5, 2023, covering key areas in the state capital.
What Do the Restrictions Include?
According to orders issued by Gaurav Kumar, Sub-divisional magistrate of Patna Sadar, the administration has imposed a comprehensive ban on various activities that could disrupt legislative proceedings. The measures explicitly prohibit crowds, protests, processions, sloganeering, and carrying weapons or explosives in the designated security zone.
The order specifically bans unlawful assembly of five or more people, demonstrations, processions, dharna, or gherao within the notified area. Additionally, carrying firearms, ammunition, explosives, or weapons like knives, spears, axes, and spades is strictly prohibited. The use of loudspeakers without proper permission has also been banned.
Affected Areas and Enforcement
The security restrictions cover specific routes around the assembly building and Secretariat police station area. The designated zones include:
- From Patna Zoo Gate No-1 to Visvesvaraya Bhawan via Nehru Path
- Kotwali T-Point to R-Block roundabout up to the railway line
- Chitkohra roundabout to Veterinary College
- Kotwali T-Point via Budh Marg to Patna GPO roundabout
The administration has warned that violators will face action under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS). Previously, such violations were dealt with under the Indian Penal Code.
Exemptions and Official Justification
While the restrictions are comprehensive, certain individuals are exempt from these measures. The exemption list includes:
- Government officials on duty
- Police and military personnel performing their duties
- Members of the legislative assembly and council
- Officers and employees posted in the assembly or legislative council
- People carrying valid passes issued by the Secretariat
- Vehicles with valid government-issued passes
The administration stated that these steps are necessary to maintain law and order and ensure the smooth functioning of the winter session amid concerns over potential protests and demonstrations. The winter session of the Bihar legislative assembly begins on December 1 in Patna.
These precautionary measures aim to create an orderly environment during the crucial legislative proceedings and prevent any disruption to the democratic process. The timing coincides with the complete five-day duration of the assembly session, reflecting the administration's commitment to security while allowing elected representatives to conduct their business without interference.
