Dehradun Police caution against protests at key city points during tourist season

Dehradun: The Dehradun Police on Thursday issued a warning that strict action will be taken against individuals or groups organising protests, processions or rallies at major intersections during the upcoming peak tourist season.

Officials said the city is likely to witness heavy footfall during Christmas, New Year and school vacations, which could lead to traffic congestion. Any gathering or demonstration at busy points is expected to cause significant inconvenience to residents and visitors. Police also noted that the ongoing wedding season will further increase traffic load.

Authorities stated that anyone holding protests, processions, rallies, slogan-shouting events or using loudspeakers without prior permission at key junctions will face prosecution under Section 223 of the Indian Penal Code.

The restricted zones include Ghantaghar, Gandhi Park, Parade Ground and nearby areas, Kanak Chowk, Esley Hall Chowk, Darshan Lal Chowk, Tehsil Chowk and Buddha Chowk.

Police added that these locations are already notified as no-protest zones under Section 163(1) of the Indian Civil Defence Code, 2023.

(with inputs from agencies)