Pune was swept into confusion with reports on social media and from the government claiming a curfew for 14 days was imposed on the city. These discussions began because authorities issued new policing and administration preventative measures starting on May 26. Many residents believed there was a possible lockdown in the near future and became worried about transportation, businesses, schools, and banks.
Later, officials clarified that Pune was not under a total curfew, but that the administration had imposed prohibitive orders to help maintain law and order for the upcoming festivals and potential public unrest.
What do the restrictions actually mean?
According to a representative of the Pune Police, the restrictions are preventative and not intended to stop normal public movement. The restrictions are primarily designed to restrict certain activities such as rallies, protests, marches, demonstrations, and large public gatherings.
Authorities stated that an order like this is typically created prior to a major festival or politically sensitive time period to avoid public disorder and create public safety. The restrictions are expected to be in effect for around 14 days.
The law prohibits carrying of weapons, flammable items, sticks or stones and flammable substances while attending gatherings. In addition, any speech or act that is likely to incite unrest or that could provoke unrest also includes actions by police agencies.
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Pune Police says there is “no curfew in pune”.
After extensive speculation on social media, Pune Police issued an official clarification to the public. Commissioner Amitesh Kumar declared that there is “NO CURFEW IN PUNE.” Additionally, citizens would not have any restriction on their movement to conduct their normal duties.
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Pune Administration Issues Restrictive Orders for 14 Days
Officials reminded that residents had the freedom to move throughout the city and continue to conduct daily life activities. Police also encouraged everyone not to believe unverified messages related to social media and to only utilize government statements as a reliable source of information.
Pune’s Police ultimately felt the need to make this statement, after a number of sensationalized posts that indicated Pune would be locked down for two weeks due to the escalating fuel crisis, rising tensions in the middle east, and growing concerns about major future events.
Action Against Illegal Activities Intensified
The Pune Police have denied a lockdown, but assured an intensified enforcement drive across the city. Authorities are taking stringent actions against the unauthorized street vendors, eateries working after permissible hours, and establishments violating civic regulations.
Late-night food outlets and illegal roadside businesses are currently being monitored thoroughly by the police. Additional checkpoints and patrol teams have been added in several parts of the city for better compliance with regulations.
Residents in some areas noted more police patrols and traffic checks, fuelling more speculation for a curfew. Officials maintain that these checks are routine policing and law-and-order work.
Normalcy of Essential Services
The rumors gave rise to fears that banks, transport services, and essential services may be curbed. Authorities clarified that Pune banks will work according to the holiday list declared by the Reserve Bank of India and will not be closed due to any sort of curfew.
Essential services like hospitals, pharmacies, grocery stores, milk kiosks, and public transports are operating normally. There are also no restrictions on office work, daily commuting, or emergency travel.
Officials have assured the public that the city is still accessible; there’s no need to panic buy or rush into stores and fuel stations.
Social Media Rumors Make the Situation Worse
Much of the confusion stems from widely shared posts on social media, along with misleading messages that incorrectly described all of the preventive measures as being a “14 day curfew.” There were a number of erroneous posts stating that movement across Pune would be banned and that the government was preparing for a potential crisis.
The incorrect information rapidly spread via online messaging system(s), causing concern among the public and leading to several discussions taking place in an online format. The police have urged citizens to check the validity of themselves prior to posting and stated that if people post false information they could face criminal charges.
Administration Appeals for Public Cooperation
Even if they have clarified that there was no lockdown, the authorities have appealed to the masses to cooperate with law enforcement during the restriction period. Citizens have been urged to keep away from unnecessary gatherings and to remain at peace with official-sanctioned measures to help preserve peace in the city.
Officials further stated that these temporary restrictions are preventively imposed to avoid disturbances during sensitive periods and to enable normal public life to function smoothly. They also pointed out that normal life in Pune has not been largely disrupted.
