Amidst concerns of potential law and order disruptions and security threats during the Lok Sabha Elections, Chandigarh District Magistrate Vinay Pratap Singh on Sunday issued a stringent order under Section 144 Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) to prohibit the carrying of all types of firearms and ammunition within the Union Territory of Chandigarh. Chandigarh is going to polls in the seventh and the final phase on June 1.   The decision comes in response to apprehensions regarding the misuse of arms by anti-social elements, which could lead to public nuisance and jeopardize public safety. Citing the possibility of disturbances that could disrupt the electoral process and endanger lives, the order underscores the imperative to maintain public peace and tranquility during this crucial period of democratic exercise.   The issuance of the order aligns with the instructions and guidelines laid down by the Election Commission of India in their directive, dated June 8, 2023. The Commission emphasized the importance of taking proactive measures to prevent incidents that could impede the conduct of free and fair elections.   Under the terms of the order, all arms license holders within the boundaries of Chandigarh are directed to promptly deposit their firearms and ammunition at the nearest police stations. The proactive measure aimed at mitigating the risk of potential incidents involving the misuse of firearms, thereby safeguarding the integrity of the electoral process and ensuring the safety of citizens.   However, certain exceptions to the prohibition have been outlined in the order. Paramilitary personnel and government servants are exempted from the restrictions if called upon to carry firearms in connection with their official duties, provided they are in their service uniform. Additionally, individuals exempted by the Election Commission of India or the Screening Committee constituted as per their instructions are also excluded from the prohibition.   The restrictions, which come into effect from zero hours on March 16, 2024, will remain enforceable for a period of 60 days, up to and including May 14, 2024. Any individual unwilling to deposit their weapon may seek recourse by appealing to the Screening Committee for consideration. This decisive action aims to uphold the sanctity of the electoral process and ensure the peaceful conduct of elections in Chandigarh.

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