Authorities in Kathua district of Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday imposed restrictions on “unnecessary movement” within a five-km belt along the International Border. Officials said the step was taken due to the possibility of cross-border firing and to prevent anti-national activities while ensuring the safety of villagers.
Kathua District Magistrate Rajesh Sharma passed the order under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS). The provision allows executive magistrates to take precautionary steps in urgent situations to maintain public order and safety.
"The security situation in the border areas has become sensitive and there is a possibility of cross-border firing at any time. Movement in the border areas is required to be restricted to ensure the utmost safety of villagers and prevent any anti-national activities," the order reads.
The District Magistrate said he was satisfied that there were sufficient grounds to issue the order. He said it was necessary for the immediate prevention of danger to human life and to maintain public peace.
“In exercise of the powers vested in me under Section 163 BNSS, I hereby restrict unnecessary movement in the border area in a strip of five kilometres from the International Border falling within the area of responsibility of the (BSF) unit, from BOP (Border Outpost) Paharpur forward to BOP Karol Krishna,” the order stated.
Sharma also banned the movement of heavy vehicles such as trucks, tippers and multi-axle vehicles on the old Samba–Kathua road between 9 pm and 6 am.
“The restrictions have come into force from February 14 and will remain in effect for 60 days from the date of issuance unless withdrawn earlier,” the order said. It added that any violation would attract action under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
When contacted, Sharma said the new order continues earlier restrictions. He said the only change is that the restricted zone has been extended from two kilometres to five kilometres from the International Border.
“The earlier order expired today, so a revised order has been issued with some changes,” he said.
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