SHILLONG, MAR 28: The Sub Divisional Magistra of Sohra on Thursday promulgated section 144 CrPC prohibiting assembly of 4 or more persons, carrying of arms and engaging in provocation actions within the Sohra Sub Division.
The order was passed ex-parte following apprehension of breach of public peace and tranquillity in Sohra Sub Division in view of the twin murder that took place in Ichamati and Dalda villages in the evening of March 27.
The order said that there are sufficient and substantial concerns regarding public safety and security and that it is necessary to take immediate steps to prevent further loss of life and maintain law and order in the area.
The order passed by the SDM Saloni Verma, will be applicable in the entirety of Sohra Sub Division with effect from Thursday until further notice.
The order said no assembly/congregation/meeting of 4 or more persons is permitted in any public place within Sohra Sub Division until further notice. This includes rallies, cultural events, social events and all other forms of collective gatherings.
The only exception to this is meetings/processions relating to the upcoming election to the Lok Sabha, 2024 but only if they have received due permission from the office of the SDO (Election), Sohra.
Hence, assembly/congregation/meeting of 4 or more persons is prohibited in any public place within Sohra Sub Division except if permission has been obtained from the aforementioned authority solely for election purpose.
Prohibiting the carrying of arms, the order said all individuals except law enforcement agencies and their personnel are prohibited from carrying any arms/weapons/corrosive and inflammatory substances/lathis/daggers/sticks/knives/spears/swords or any other article capable of being used as a weapon of offence or defence in any public place in Sohra Sub Division.
Also imposing restrictions on speech, the order said all individuals of Sohra Sub Division are prohibited from engaging in provocative actions, slogans, speech or messages through verbal, written or electronic means, which may incite or inflame passions, leading to a breach of public order and tranquility.
Moreover, all individuals/associations/groups in Sohra are prohibited from using loudspeakers, amplifiers or other similar instruments in or at any private vehicles or private building or public place unless allowed by the competent authority.
All residents, community leaders, and stakeholders are directed to comply with this order and cooperate with law enforcement agencies to maintain peace and order in the area.
Any violation of this order is punishable under Section 188 of the Indian Penal Code, the order stated.
