Section 144 extended in Lucknow till November 8

The Lucknow Police Commissionerate has extended prohibitory orders under Section 144 in the city, till November 8. Reportedly, the restriction has been imposed to curb the chances of COVID spread in the city during the upcoming festive season. In line with the same, prior approval of the police & administration will be essential to hold any gathering of 5 or more people in Lucknow.

Promoting safety of persons and property

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All upcoming festive celebrations in Lucknow, namely Navratri, Dussehra, Diwali, Bhai Dhooj, Barawafat and Chhath in Lucknow will take a sombre tone, under Section 144 of the CrPC. The prohibitory order bans the assembly of five or more people at a single place, encouraging the scope of social distancing in view of the ongoing pandemic.

Meanwhile, the Joint Commissioner of Police, Piyush Mordia said that anti-social elements may try to spoil the atmosphere of the upcoming festivals. These orders, thus, have been circulated to maintain peace, harmony and public order to promote the overall safety of persons and property.

The Joint Commissioner also highlighted that all celebrations related to the setting up of Durga Puja pandals and Dusshera events must be in accordance with the guidelines issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs.

Need to follow pandemic protocols

While the COVID transmission is decreasing in Lucknow, the threat of the pandemic has not subsided and relevant precautionary measures still need to be adhered to. The public must wear a mask and maintain social distancing at all times in public spaces, especially while attending any festival gathering.

Frequent sanitisation and caution to hygiene are the need of the hour. Besides, eligible beneficiaries are encouraged to get their vaccination as soon as possible to prevent the threat of an infection resurgence - in the form of a 'third wave'.