‘iPhone langar’ stopped in Chandigarh, authorities say it could lead to stampede

Chandigarh authorities have prohibited a planned 'iPhone langar' event on September 22 due to concerns over potential crowd control issues and stampedes. The proposal, announced on social media by Rakesh Trehan, an Amritsar-based businessman, involved distributing high-end iPhone models as 'prasad' (holy offering) in Chandigarh and Mohali.

Deputy Commissioner Nishant Yadav instructed the police to prevent the event, citing the risk of a large gathering. Trehan, known for making frequent social media announcements under the name 'Raja D King', has a history of organizing events like free petrol langars. However, the organizer had not obtained necessary permissions, and holding such a gathering would violate Section 163 of the BNSS, leading to penalties under Section 223 of the BNS.

Violations can result in simple imprisonment, fines, or both, depending on the severity of the disobedience.