Pune Police Impose 14-Day Prohibitory Orders Ahead of Festivals and Congress Event

Pune police have imposed prohibitory orders for fourteen days starting Tuesday, restricting public assemblies and effigy burning ahead of upcoming festivals and Congress's event. The order, citing security concerns for Eid-e-Milad, Narali Purnima, Rakshabandhan, and possible protests, bans gatherings of five or more, loud sloganeering, and circulation of objectionable material.

Congress leader Pawan Khera alleged the move targets Rahul Gandhi's August 22 programme, calling it an attempt to block the 'Chhatron Ki Gunj' event. Police cited the Maharashtra Police Act, with violations attracting action under Section 135. The order exempts government officials and security guards.

Khera compared this to similar attempts in Kota, Dehradun, and Prayagraj, stating stopping Gandhi is 'next to impossible.' The prohibitory order will remain in effect until August 31.