Section 144 has been imposed for 2 consecutive months in several areas of Kolkata, West Bengal, India. During this time, no meetings and processions can be held in the respective areas. Kolkata Police Commissioner Vineet Goyal issued this unprecedented directive on Friday (May 24).
These guidelines will be in force from May 28 to July 26. According to the directive, Section 144 will be in force from KC Das Crossing towards Victoria House and its surrounding areas except Bentinck Street under Boubazar Police Station, Hare Street Police Station and Kolkata Traffic Guard Headquarters.
According to the instructions, no more than five people can gather anywhere in the concerned area. According to Kolkata Police sources, there is a fear of unrest before and after the polls in the respective areas. That is why this step has been taken as an advance warning.
According to police sources, some anti-social activities have been reported in the concerned areas. The police also learned that a major violent situation could be created.
In this case, it is also feared that they can easily ‘target’ the procession or meeting of the political party. That is why a ban has been imposed on procession meetings.
The last round of voting will be held in Kolkata on June 1. Results will be declared on June 4. Ahead of the polls, processions and meetings have been banned for two months in the respective areas. The police informed that this decision is for the protection of the people of the area.
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