Amid heightened tensions between India and Pakistan, the District Magistrate of Ludhiana, Himanshu Jain, IAS, has imposed strict restrictions under Section 163 of the Bhartiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, citing national security and public safety concerns. Multiple key locations of Punjab, including Jalandhar, Adampur, Pathankot, Ferozepur, etc, witnessed Pakistan's failed drone and missile attacks. Although most of the missiles and drones that were fired at India were thwarted by the Air Defence System, a few of them landed on the ground. 3 members of a family got injured in Ferozepur.
Not only this, air sirens also blared in Jalandhar and other parts of Punjab. Multiple drones were seen and shot down on Saturday morning in Amritsar. Keeping security concerns in mind, Ludhiana DC has issued a new advisory for the people. Below is what Ludhiana DC Himanshu Jain's directives say-
In view of the prevailing circumstances involving national security and public safety, a complete blackout may be required during night hours in the interest of strategic concerns.
Whereas, the use of inverters, generators, and any other power backup systems for outdoor lighting such as billboards, street lights, solar lights, etc., may compromise the safety of residents and render the district vulnerable.
And whereas, considering the current situation between India and Pakistan, it has also become necessary to close public places such as cinema halls and shopping malls for the safety of the general public and the protection of life and property, so as to prevent any potential threats.
- A total ban is imposed on the use of inverters, generators, and any other power backup systems used for outdoor lights, billboards, street lights, etc., and on the use of solar lights during blackout operations in District Ludhiana until further orders.
- A ban is imposed on the use of long-beam laser lights and DJ lights, especially during evening hours.
- During evening hours, residents are requested not to leave their homes unless it is absolutely urgent. In the event of any siren or emergency signal, the public shall immediately follow instructions issued by the government from time to time. Illumination should be minimized.
This order shall not apply to law enforcement agencies, including the Police, Paramilitary Forces, Air Force, SPG personnel, and persons authorized by a competent government authority. Hospitals and emergency services are also exempted.
This order shall remain in force from 10.05.2025 until further orders.
In view of the emergent situation and the shortage of time, this order is being issued ex-parte and is addressed to the public in general. Any violation of this order shall attract action under Section 223 of the Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, and other applicable laws.