Following reports about the impending arrest of Kadapa MP Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy on Friday, the city police commissioner, Mr Anurag Sharma, on Wednesday enforced Section 144 CrPC across the city banning the assembly of five or more persons. The order, which is aimed at preventing the Kadapa MP’s followers and YSRC leaders assemble and protest on May 25, will be in force from 6 am on May 24, to 6 am on May 29. State level officials of DG and IG ranks will meet on Thursday to discuss the law and order arrangement for Mr Jagan Mohan Reddy’s appearance before the CBI.
Section 144 in view of bypolls, says Anurag
About imposing CrPC Section 144, city police commissioner Anurag Sharma on Wednesday said, “Reliable information has been placed before me that in view of the forthcoming byelections, certain political parties are likely to mobilise a large number of supporters in the city limits taking advantage of some local events to derive political advantage. In the emotionally-charged atmosphere, large-scale mobilisation of people in the form of rallies and processions in Hyderabad city is likely to adversely affect the maintenance of law and order.
“As a precautionary measure to maintain public order, protect properties of the public and individuals, prevent danger to human life and to prevent rioting, I have imposed Section 144 CrPC.” The commissioner also prohibited dharnas, rallies and public meetings and individuals from making any speeches, gestures and display of pictures, symbols and flags. Members of the police, military and home guards on duty and funeral processions are exempted. Districts SPs and DIGs have been asked to be extra careful.