14-Day Public Meeting Ban Enforced in Pune to Preserve Peace

In a decisive move to avert unrest, Pune Police have clamped a 14-day prohibition on public meetings, demonstrations, and processions. Effective from 12:01 a.m. on 16 May through midnight on 8 June, the order applies citywide and targets politically charged protests over surging fuel prices. Authorities also aim to safeguard communal harmony during Bakrid celebrations scheduled for 28 May. Under the new directive, citizens are barred from carrying sticks, stones, explosives, or any object that could endanger public safety. Inflammatory slogans, speeches, effigy burnings, and objectionable banners have been outlawed. Breaches will result in prompt arrest and confiscation of prohibited materials. Routine civic life, including emergency services and daily commuting, will proceed without interruption, but large congregations remain under strict watch. Senior officers have warned that the restrictions will be enforced uniformly regardless of the organiser’s political affiliation.