Fazilka, 5 May : District Magistrate Amarpreet Kaur Sandhu, exercising powers under Section 163 of the B.N.S.S., has issued orders enforcing various restrictions within the district. These restrictions will remain in effect until 30 June 2025, and strict legal action will be taken against violators.
As per the restrictions, the transportation of cattle (especially cows) within Fazilka district is strictly prohibited after sunset and before sunrise. Those who own cattle must ensure they are registered with the Animal Husbandry Department.
Additionally, the District Magistrate has banned the serving of hookah to customers in restaurants and hookah bars across the district’s villages and municipal council areas. Violation of this order will lead to legal action under Section 188 of the Indian Penal Code.
Another order prohibits the sowing of tall crops like BT cotton, maize, guar, jowar, sugarcane, mustard, canola, sunflower, and other such crops between the international border and the border security fencing, and up to 70 to 100 meters inside the Indian side. This restriction has been enforced based on information provided by BSF officials, who reported that some farmers are growing tall crops in this sensitive area.
In another directive, the District Magistrate has completely banned the sale and storage of China-made string (Chinese manjha) used for flying kites in the Fazilka district. This synthetic/plastic string is non-biodegradable and strong, often causing injuries to hands/fingers, and posing threats to cyclists, pedestrians, and birds, sometimes even leading to death. Hence, it is considered hazardous to both human and bird life.
A separate order declares a 500-square-meter area around Sub Jail Fazilka as a “No Drone Zone.” The District Magistrate stated that drones, now easily accessible to the public, can be misused to supply mobile phones, drugs, weapons, or escape-aid items to dangerous prisoners. Therefore, strict action is necessary to maintain law and order in the district.
Additionally, bringing weapons or firing in the air at marriage palaces within the Fazilka district has been strictly prohibited.
Another directive instructs officials of concerned departments to deploy staff/guards round-the-clock to ensure the security of all government buildings and water tanks within Fazilka district, to prevent any protest or demonstration by groups or individuals.
Finally, the District Magistrate has banned the use of DJ systems, firecrackers, and laser lights in border villages of Fazilka after 5 PM. This restriction aims to curb cross-border drone infiltration attempts, as loud music from DJs during night time makes it difficult for border security personnel to detect drone activity, which is often heard as a faint buzzing sound.
Summary:
District authorities have enforced restrictions to maintain law and order; residents are urged to follow official guidelines and updates.