Assam: Cachar DM issues prohibitory order ahead of Panchayat Election

A Correspondent

SILCHAR: In light of the upcoming General Election to the Panchayat-2025 in Assam, the Cachar district administration has swung into action to ensure a peaceful and orderly nomination process. Acting swiftly on the heels of the State Election Commission’s recent announcement of the Panchayat polls via Notification No. SEC.63/2022/125 dated April 2, 2025, the District Magistrate of Cachar,  Mridul Yadav, has invoked Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, issuing a comprehensive prohibitory order across the district.

The nomination process, which commenced on April 3, 2025 at various designated centres under Cachar’s jurisdiction, has raised concerns regarding the possible congregation of large crowds. The administration apprehended potential disturbances to public peace, breaches of tranquillity, and violations of the Model Code of Conduct as candidates and supporters converge on the centres. Anticipating unrest, the district authority has deemed it necessary to act proactively to maintain order and prevent any untoward incidents.

Through this order, the District Magistrate has strictly prohibited the unlawful assembly of five or more persons in and around nomination centres without prior official approval. Additionally, events and rallies within a 100-metre radius of the centres have been barred. To further ensure safety, the carrying of arms, sticks, or any other form of weapon near the nomination areas is now strictly forbidden.

This ex-parte order, issued under Section 163 of BNSS 2023, is a decisive step aimed at preemptively diffusing any potential flashpoints during the critical nomination window. The administration has made it clear that any violation of the directive will invite stringent action under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, and other prevailing laws.

The order takes immediate effect and will remain in force until the completion of the nomination phase of the Panchayat elections. As electoral fervour builds, the district authority has urged all political parties, candidates, and citizens to cooperate in upholding the democratic process in a peaceful and disciplined manner, stated a press release.

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