PANCHAYAT POLL

Section 144 promulgated in Cooch Behar

 

COOCH BEHAR, May 6: As electioneering in Cooch Behar district is going on in full swing, political feelings are running high and serious tension is built up, the district magistrate of Cooch Behar Mr Rajesh Kumar Sinha promulgated Section 144 CrPC prohibiting all persons carrying arms and weapons in public processions and public meetings in entire Cooch Behar district.

 

In his order the DM mentioned that he promulgated the prohibitory order following reports from received the SP, OCs and other sources.

 

As processions are being taken out by various political parties and others in support of their candidates armed with lathis, dandas, stout bamboo-sticks, sharp cutting weapons, daos, tangis, etc with a view to show dominance in an area and to threaten the rival groups and people in general and major clashes have been reported from some parts of the district during these processions resulting injury to several persons the DM had to impose the order.

 

The DM stated that he enforced the order to prevent disturbance of public peace and for preservation of public safety for the entire election period and even in the post-election period till 5 June. []