Gurdaspur, 23 July 2025 : The Punjab State Election Commission has announced by-elections for panches and sarpanches across the state to be held on July 27, 2025. Under this announcement, by-elections will also be held in Gurdaspur district for 15 sarpanches and 275 panches.
In view of these by-elections, Additional District Magistrate of Gurdaspur, Dr. Harjinder Singh Bedi, IAS, exercising powers under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, has issued orders that licensed weapon holders are prohibited from carrying their weapons in the election-bound villages until July 28, 2025.
According to these prohibitory orders, the Additional District Magistrate stated that no one will be allowed to carry weapons, which includes licensed firearms, ammunition, axes, knives, daggers, spears, iron rods, sticks, chains, explosives, or any such item that can be used as a weapon to commit a crime, in the election areas.
He further clarified that these orders will not apply to Army personnel, paramilitary forces, police officials, bank security guards, factory security guards, petrol pump owners, money exchange owners, jewelry shop owners, sportspersons (specifically shooters who are members of the National Rifle Association and are participating in an event), or individuals provided security by the Government of India / Punjab Government or by order of the Hon’ble Court for personal safety.
These orders will remain in force until July 28, 2025.
Summary :
Authorities have enforced a ban on carrying weapons in regions where panchayat by-elections are scheduled to ensure safety and maintain public order.