Public Safety and Security Orders by the District Magistrate, Chandigarh Under Section 163 of the Bhartiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023

The Voice of Chandigarh News :

Orders issued by the District Magistrate of Chandigarh under Section 163 of the Bhartiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, aimed at ensuring public safety, security, and preventing unlawful activities in the Union Territory of Chandigarh. Below is a summary of the key points and directives outlined in the orders:

1. Hotel/Restaurant/Guest House Regulations:
   • Owners and managers of hotels, restaurants, guest houses, and similar establishments must obtain identification proof (e.g., Aadhar card, voter ID, passport) from all visitors or guests.
   • A register should be maintained with details like name, address, phone number, and a signature of the guest.
   • These measures aim to prevent antisocial elements from using such places as hideouts and to ensure public safety.
2. Prohibition on Unauthorized Gatherings:
   • Public gatherings (such as rallies, protests, and strikes) are prohibited outside the designated Rally Ground in Sector 25, Chandigarh.
   • Any gatherings or public events must have prior approval from the District Magistrate or Sub-Divisional Magistrate.
   • Exceptions are made for official duties of government personnel, customary events like weddings and funerals, and approved processions.
3. Sale of Military/Police Uniforms and Items:
   • The sale of military, police, or paramilitary uniforms, logos, or related items is prohibited unless the seller keeps a record of the buyer’s identification.
   • This order is intended to prevent antisocial elements from misusing such items to impersonate law enforcement personnel.
4. Regulation of BPOs and Nighttime Transportation:
   • Companies providing pick-and-drop services for employees (especially women) must ensure safety measures, such as verifying the backgrounds of employees, security guards, and drivers.
   • Cabs used for transportation must be monitored, with GPS systems installed, and should follow safe routes. Security personnel or male colleagues must accompany female employees in cabs during night hours.
   • Employers must ensure that the routes do not expose female employees to additional risk, such as being the first or last to be picked up or dropped off.
5. Regulation of Residential and Commercial Leasing:
   • Landlords and managers of residential and commercial properties must inform the local police about tenants, servants, or domestic workers before renting out or employing them.
   • This measure aims to prevent antisocial elements from hiding under the guise of tenants or employees and ensure better surveillance.
6. Regulation of Travel Agents:
   • Travel agents dealing with visas, foreign travel arrangements, and related services must provide their complete antecedents to the relevant Sub-Divisional Magistrate for verification.
   • Travel agents must ensure the authenticity of their operations to prevent fraudulent activities that may endanger public safety.

Enforcement and Duration:

• All these orders are effective from 30th December 2024 to 27th February 2025.
• Any breach of these orders will result in action under Section 223 of the Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 and other relevant legal provisions.

These orders represent measures aimed at maintaining public safety, security, and preventing unlawful or harmful activities, particularly in light of potential terrorist threats, criminal activities, and social unrest.