The district administration appeals to citizens to comply with the order, warns of strict action against violators
The district administration of Diamer in Gilgit Baltistan (GB) imposed Section 144 for a period of 60 days with effect from June 5 as authorities complete final preparations for the elections.
The imposition of Section 144 was issued by District Judge Diamer Lt (retired) Muhammad Awais, and covered a wide range of restrictions aimed at public safety risks and protection of sensitive installations.
Under the directives, a complete ban has been placed on the “carrying or display of all types of weapons and ammunition, aerial firing and the use of crackers,” along with a ban on “the flight, operation and use of all types of drones, quadcopters and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).”
Section 144 imposed in Diamer, GB
The ban, which exempts those who have obtained written NOCs from the District Magistrate along with law enforcement agencies, has been enforced “in view of the prevailing security environment and emerging threats to public safety, sensitive installation and strategic infrastructure in District Diamer.”
The notice further stated, “Any unregulated or unauthorized flight of drones/UAVs, incidents of aerial firing and use of explosive fireworks pose a serious threat to law and order, public tranquility and safety of government buildings,” adding that the same pose serious risks to human life, property and may result in danger to public space.
Read: Tensions rise in GB ahead of vote
According to the district judge, “the situation has arisen and requires immediate preventive measures to maintain public tranquility, ensure the safety of human life and avert any potential disturbance of public peace.”
The district administration appealed to citizens to comply with the orders in letter and spirit and warned that strict legal action will be taken against potential violators.
Read more: FO rejects New Delhi’s ‘outlandish claims’ over UK elections
The GB Assembly elections are due to take place on 7 June, with the assembly having completed its five-year term in November 2025. The elections, originally scheduled for 24 January, were postponed due to severe weather conditions.
June 7 was later finalized as the only possible window before the start of Muharram in mid-June, which would otherwise have pushed the vote into late summer or early fall.
