Prohibitory orders in Pune ahead of Bakrid, cops say preventive

PUNE: The Pune police commissioner, Amitesh Kumar, on Tuesday said the prohibitory orders issued on May 23, restricting large gatherings by political parties, social organisations and others till June 8, were a routine exercise to maintain law and order before any festival or event.

The police commissioner said such orders were even issued before the elections. “These restrictions are imposed every fortnight, especially ahead of festivals and other major events, to maintain law and order in the city. Similar orders have been in place for several years and not meant for a particular festival. Hence, the orders should be taken in the right spirit,” Kumar said.

The Special Branch of the Pune police had issued the orders, effective Tuesday midnight, calling on citizens to maintain peace, and law and order during upcoming festivals, including Bakrid. Issued by deputy commissioner of police (Special Branch) Prashant Amrutkar, the orders also prohibited carrying stones, sharp weapons, inflammable materials and sticks in public places. It also bars activities like burning effigies and raising slogans.

Previously, on March 14, the Special Branch had issued prohibitory orders urging citizens to maintain peace during festivals like Gudi Padwa, Ramzan Eid and Ram Navami.

On January 30, similar curbs were announced to ensure tranquillity during the 2026 zilla parishad and panchayat samiti elections.