Pune police impose curbs on gatherings till Aug 31

Pune police have introduced 14-day prohibitory orders across the city, starting from Tuesday, to restrict public gatherings and the burning of effigies. The decision was made ahead of upcoming festivals and the Congress' Chhatron Ki Gunj event. Police cited security concerns for the upcoming festivals and potential protests as reasons for enforcing the restrictions under the Maharashtra Police Act.

Congress leader Pawan Khera accused the government of trying to disrupt Rahul Gandhi's scheduled program on August 22. The order will remain in effect until August 31. It prohibits activities such as carrying explosives, weapons, or forming groups of five or more for meetings, public meetings without prior police permission, and circulating objectionable material on social media.

Government officials on duty and security guards with lathis up to 3.5 feet are exempted from the restrictions. Violations of the order will be dealt with under Section 135 of the Maharashtra Police Act.